Modular vending machines

Abstract

The present invention discloses a modular vending machine for storing products and distributing products to consumers. The modular vending machine may include a product storage system, a user interface, and a control unit. Several modular vending machines may be stacked and / or arranged together in various configurations. Several modular vending machines may be electronically linked and may communicate with each other and / or with a user mobile device via a network. The modular vending machine may automatically complete a transaction with a consumer, wherein the consumer removes the product from the modular vending machine. A consumer may access and purchase products from several modular vending machines in one transaction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to product dispensers, such as vending machines. In particular, embodiments relate to modular vending machines and systems of modular vending machines. Background Art

[0002] Vending machines enable consumers to purchase a variety of products, such as food, beverages, or other consumer goods, on demand. Vending machines have many advantages as an alternative to some retail environments that offer similar sales products, such as, for example, convenience stores or kiosks. For example, some vending machines do not require the presence of an employee to complete a transaction, thereby reducing operating costs and making the machine an inexpensive way to sell goods to consumers. Summary of the invention

[0003] Some embodiments provide modular vending machines that can operate independently or in conjunction with other modular vending machines as a system. They allow users to conveniently purchase multiple products in just one transaction. Some embodiments also provide modular vending machines that can be arranged and / or stacked together to efficiently utilize available space. Methods of selling products from modular vending machines are also described herein.

[0004] For example, an embodiment includes a modular vending system, wherein the modular vending system includes a first modular vending unit having a first product compartment. The first modular vending unit may also include a first locking mechanism and a first product sensor, the first locking mechanism being operable to be accessed by a user through a first door, the first product sensor being configured to determine the number of products disposed in the first product compartment. The first modular vending unit may also include a user interface configured to receive user information. The modular vending system may also include a second modular vending unit having a second product compartment. The second modular vending unit may also include a second locking mechanism and a second product sensor, the second locking mechanism being operable to be accessed by a user through a second door, the second product sensor being configured to determine the number of products disposed in the second product compartment. In addition, when the user interface of the first modular vending unit receives the user information, the first door and the second door are both unlocked.

[0005] Embodiments also include a modular vending machine having a first product compartment and a second product compartment separate from the first product compartment. The first locking mechanism may be configured to automatically lock and unlock the first door of the first product compartment, and the second locking mechanism may be configured to automatically lock and unlock the second door of the second product compartment. The modular vending machine may also include a user interface configured to receive information from a user and a product sensor system configured to determine the number of products disposed in the first product compartment and the second product compartment. During vending operation, the user can access both the first product compartment and the second product compartment through the first door and the second door, respectively, and only one of the first door and the second door can be opened at a time.

[0006] The method of vending products from a modular vending machine may include receiving user information from a user, determining the number of products in a first product compartment and a second product compartment, unlocking a first door and a second door so that the user can access the first product compartment and the second product compartment, respectively. The method may also include locking the second door when the first door is open, unlocking the second door when the first door is closed, and then locking both the first door and the second door. Then, after both doors are locked, determining the number of products removed from the first product compartment and the second product compartment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the invention and enable those skilled in the art to make and use the invention.

[0008] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 is a front view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4A is a top front perspective view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A top rear perspective view of a modular vending machine.

[0013] Figure 5 is a top front perspective view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 is a top front perspective view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 is a front view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 is a front perspective view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 9 An exemplary network environment suitable for use and interconnection of the exemplary components described herein is depicted according to an embodiment.

[0018] Fig.10 is a front view of a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0019] Fig.11 An exemplary network environment suitable for use and interconnection of the exemplary components described herein is depicted according to an embodiment.

[0020] Fig.12 is a block diagram illustrating steps of a method of using a modular vending machine according to an embodiment.

[0021] Fig.13 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary computer system in which embodiments may be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the embodiments of the invention as shown in the accompanying drawings. References to "one embodiment", "embodiment", "exemplary embodiment", etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include specific features, structures or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the specific features, structures or characteristics. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, when a specific feature, structure or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, whether or not explicitly described, it is considered that a person skilled in the art can implement such feature, structure or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0023] The consumer appeal and profitability of some vending machines may be significantly related to the ability of the vending machine to serve consumers in a convenient and efficient manner. One measure of the convenience of a vending machine may be the location of the vending machine relative to a convenience area (such as a high traffic area) for consumers. However, due to certain size and / or infrastructure requirements, some vending machines may be limited to being placed in areas that are not in high traffic areas, thus requiring consumers to deviate from their routes to purchase goods from the vending machine. Another measure of the convenience of a vending machine may be the speed and efficiency of completing transactions with the vending machine. For example, some vending machines require consumers to complete transactions individually for each product purchased, which can increase the amount of time it takes for users to purchase multiple products. In addition, some vending machines do not allow users to see and / or handle products before purchasing them, which can reduce consumer satisfaction.

[0024] Embodiments as described herein include modular vending machines for storing products and distributing products to consumers. The modular vending machines can be used independently, or can be physically or electronically connected to other modular vending machines so that they operate together as a system. The modular vending machines can be smaller than some existing vending machines, which can allow them to be placed in areas that are convenient for consumers, such as, for example, tables and / or work surfaces. Similarly, the modular vending machines can be placed in a variety of different arrangements to effectively utilize available space.

[0025] In some embodiments, the modular vending machine may include a door through which a user can access a product compartment containing a variety of different products, and may allow the user to handle, inspect, remove and / or return products before purchase. The modular vending machine may also include a product removal sensor that automatically determines which product(s) the user has removed so that the user can pay accordingly. In this way, the user may not be required to complete multiple transactions to purchase multiple products, which may increase the efficiency of the vending machine and, therefore, increase consumer satisfaction.

[0026] The modular nature of some vending machines as described herein can also reduce the upfront costs associated with installing a vending machine. For example, a vending machine operator can first install a small modular vending machine, which can be cheaper than some existing vending machines. Then, if necessary, the operator can later add additional modules to increase product storage capacity. In this way, the existing infrastructure does not need to be replaced, but can be added in proportion to consumer demand.

[0027] Embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 1 to 3, the modular vending machine 100 may include a product storage system 110, a user interface 300, and a control unit 400. As described in more detail below, several modular vending machines 100 may be mechanically and / or electronically connected and may operate together as a system.

[0028] The product storage system 110 is configured to store and / or display one or more products 10 to be sold to a user. The products 10 may include perishable and non-perishable products. The products 10 may include, but are not limited to, potato chips, candy bars, non-alcoholic beverages, water, carbonated water, juice, alcoholic beverages, sports drinks, pre-packaged goods, fresh food, or other suitable products. In some embodiments, the products 10 may include convenience items, medicines, toiletries, electronic devices, or other suitable non-perishable products.

[0029] Product storage system 110 may include a product compartment 120 defined by interior surface 108. Product 10 may be placed and / or stored within product compartment 120. In some embodiments, product storage system 110 may include a shelf 114 configured to hold and / or store product 10 within product compartment 120. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, for example, shelf 114 may be disposed horizontally in product compartment 120. In some embodiments, more than one shelf 114 may be disposed in product compartment 120 (see, e.g., Figure 7 In some embodiments, produce storage system 110 may include light 190 configured to illuminate produce compartment 120 or a portion of produce compartment 120 .

[0030] As shown in the figure, for example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, shelf 114 may be configured to partially extend across product compartment 120 so that, for example, areas above and below the shelf are not thermally isolated from each other. In some embodiments, shelf 114 may be configured to divide the space defined by interior surface 108 into two adjacent product compartments 120. In some embodiments, shelf 114 may be insulated to reduce heat exchange between adjacent product compartments 120.

[0031] In some embodiments, each product compartment 120 may store a different kind of product 10. For example, non-perishable products 10 may be stored in one product compartment 120, and perishable products 10 may be stored in another product compartment 120. In some embodiments, products 10 preferably served at a temperature other than room temperature may be stored in one product compartment 120, and products 10 preferably served at room temperature may be stored in another product compartment 120. In some embodiments, all of the products 10 stored in a product compartment 120 may be of the same type, weight, volume, and / or cost.

[0032] The temperature control system 150 may be used to control the temperature of the product compartment 120 of the product storage system 110 by, for example, removing heat or adding heat to the product compartment 120. In some embodiments where the modular vending machine 100 has multiple product compartments, one product compartment 120 may be temperature controlled and another product compartment 120 may not be temperature controlled. In some embodiments where the modular vending machine 100 has multiple product compartments, all product compartments 120 may be temperature controlled.

[0033] The temperature control system 150 can be, for example, a thermoelectric cooler, a refrigeration system, or other powered cooling system. In some embodiments, the temperature control system 150 can be a passive cooling system, such as, for example, ice, ice packs, cooling bags, or other thermal capacitors capable of absorbing large amounts of heat. The temperature control system 150 can be a thermoelectric heater, a heat pump, or other powered heating system. In some embodiments, the temperature control system 150 can be a passive heating system, such as, for example, a heat bag, a chemical heat bag, or other thermal capacitors capable of releasing large amounts of heat. In some embodiments, the modular vending machine 100 or a portion of the modular vending machine 100 can include insulating material to reduce heat exchange between the product compartment 120 and the ambient conditions surrounding the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, a layer of air can be sealed between the outer surface 106 and the inner surface 108 to act as a thermal insulator. As Figure 4B As shown, for example, a vent 152 may be provided in the rear portion 102 of the modular vending machine 100. Heat from the product compartment 120 may be exhausted to or absorbed from the environment by the temperature control system 150 through the vent 152.

[0034] Products 10 stored in product storage system 110 may be arranged in rows, columns, and / or stacks within product compartments 120. In some embodiments, products 10 need not be organized in a particular manner and may be placed in product storage system 110 in a variety of arrangements.

[0035] The modular vending machine 100 may include a product door 130, whereby a user may access the product compartment 120 and the product 10 during a vending operation. The product compartment 120 may also be filled or refilled with the product 10 to be vended through the product door 130. In some embodiments, the product door 130 may be disposed on the front 101 of the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, the product door 130 may be disposed on the side 103, top 104, or other portion of the modular vending machine 100.

[0036] In some embodiments, the product door 130 may include a lock 136 and may be locked so that only authorized users can access the product compartment 120. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the product door 130 may be selectively accessible by a user during vending operations. In some embodiments, the modular vending machine 100 may include multiple product doors 130, whereby a user may access the product compartment 120 and the product 10. In some embodiments, the product door 130 may include a window 132, whereby a user may see inside the product compartment 120 when the product door 130 is in a closed and / or position. In some embodiments, the product door 130 may include a handle 134, whereby a user may pull to open the product door 130.

[0037] In some embodiments, the product storage system 110 may include a product moving component 160 for moving, adjusting, or arranging the products 10 in the product storage system 110. When the product closest to the door is removed during the vending operation, the product moving component 160 can be used, for example, to move the product 10 toward the product door 130 so that the visibility and / or accessibility of the remaining products are improved. In some embodiments, the product moving component 160 may include, for example, a coil that displaces the product 10 when rotated, a conveyor system that displaces the product 10 linearly, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or an electric actuator that pushes or pulls the product 10, or a robotic tool configured to lift, hold, and / or transport the product 10. In some embodiments, the product moving component 160 may include a passive biasing system, such as, for example, a spring that exerts a force on the product 10 to move the product in a particular direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the modular vending machine 100 may include feet 182 disposed on the bottom 105 of the modular vending machine 100. The feet 182 may be used, for example, to support the modular vending machine 100 above the ground or another supporting surface, or to connect the modular vending machine 100 to another modular vending machine 100, as described in further detail below.

[0039] The product storage system 110 may include one or more product removal sensors 170 configured to determine the type and amount of product 10 removed from the product compartment 120 during the vending operation. The product removal sensor 170 may communicate with the control unit 400. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may be a component of an automatic identification and data capture (“AIDC”) system for automatically identifying the product 10. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may be a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) reader, and each product 10 in the product compartment 120 may include an RFID tag containing information about the corresponding product 10, which the product removal sensor 170 may read when the product 10 is removed. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may be a barcode scanner, an image sensor, an optical character recognition sensor, etc., which is configured to determine the type and amount of product 10 removed from the product compartment 120 based on the appearance of the product 10 or based on information (e.g., a barcode or text) provided on the surface of the product 10. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may measure the weight of the product 10 stored in the product compartment 120, and use the measured weight change of the product 10 to determine the type and quantity of the removed product 10. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may include the same features as the weight sensor described in U.S. Patent No. 9,406,187 and operate in the same manner, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may include a sensor configured to detect the presence or absence of the product 10 in the product compartment 120. For example, in some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may include ultrasonic sensors respectively disposed near the corresponding products 10 stored in the product compartment 120. When the product 10 is disposed near the ultrasonic sensor, the sensor may sense the presence of the product 10. When the product 10 moves away from the ultrasonic sensor, the sensor may sense the absence of the product 10.

[0040] During the vending operation, the product removal sensor 170 can use the change in the number of products 10 measured in the product compartment 120 to determine the type and number of products 10 removed. Similarly, in some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may include an infrared door, which may include an infrared source and an infrared sensor. When the product 10 is set between the infrared source and the infrared sensor, the infrared light from the source may not reach the infrared sensor, thereby indicating that the product 10 exists. When the product 10 is removed from between the infrared source and the infrared sensor, the infrared light from the source may reach the infrared sensor, thereby indicating that the product 10 does not exist. During the vending operation, the product removal sensor 170 can use the change in the number of products 10 measured in the product compartment 120 to determine the type and number of products 10 removed.

[0041] In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 can also sense when the product is returned to the product compartment 120. In this way, the user can remove, inspect, and return the product 10 to the product compartment without having to pay for the product 10.

[0042] Product removal sensor 170 may be disposed in a variety of locations within product compartment 120. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4A As shown, for example, the product removal sensor 170 can be disposed in various locations on the interior surface 108 adjacent to the front, back, top, bottom, or side of the modular vending machine. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 can be disposed below the shelf 114. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 can be disposed on the shelf 114. In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 can be disposed on or in the door 130 (see, e.g., Figure 7 ).

[0043] In some embodiments, the user interface 300 may include a touch screen display for receiving user input and transmitting information to the user. In some embodiments, the user interface 300 may include an electromechanical button for receiving input from the user. In some embodiments, the user interface 300 may include a visual display for communicating with the user or displaying information to the user. In some embodiments, the user interface 300 may include a combination of a touch screen, an electromechanical button, and / or a visual display. The user interface 300 may display information about the product 10 in the product storage system 110. The user interface may include a light or an icon, such as to indicate whether the product door 130 is locked or unlocked and / or the state of the transaction with the user. The user interface 300 may include a device (e.g., a banknote validator, a coin slot, or a credit card reader) for accepting payment from the user. In some embodiments, the user interface 300 may be configured to accept payment using a digital wallet service and / or a mobile payment service.

[0044] Reference Figure 3 , the user interface 300 may include an item scanner 310, which may include one or more readers or scanners for reading machine-readable items, which may be used, for example, to identify a customer or to identify payment information. The machine-readable items may include, but are not limited to, a barcode, a magnetic stripe, a quick response (QR) code, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., a mobile phone), a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) device, or an ultrasonic communication device (e.g., a Ultrasonic technology device).

[0045] User interface 300 may include a biometric scanner 320 configured to identify one or more biometric characteristics of a customer. Biometric scanner 320 may include, for example, but not limited to, a fingerprint reader, a finger vein scanner, a retinal scanner, an iris scanner, a camera (for taking pictures and / or recording videos), or a microphone. The customer's biometric characteristics may include a fingerprint, a finger vein pattern, a retinal profile, an iris profile, a facial profile, and a voice profile.

[0046] Combination Figure 2 and Fig. 9 , the control unit 400 can be configured to enable the modular vending machine 100 to operate and complete transactions automatically, that is, without direct human intervention. In some embodiments, the control unit 400 can control all aspects of the modular vending machine 100.

[0047] The control unit 400 may include a transceiver 410 that is configured to send and receive information wirelessly. The transceiver 410 may allow the control unit 400 to connect to a network 600, which may include, for example, a wireless local area network ("WLAN"), a campus area network ("CAN"), a metropolitan area network ("MAN"), or a wide area network ("WAN"). The transceiver 410 may be configured to operate on various frequencies, such as the VHF or UHF ranges, and may communicate with specific network standards, such as, for example, cellular telephones, WIFI™, or In some embodiments, the control unit 400 can be connected to the network 600 via a wired connection, such as an Ethernet cable.

[0048] like Fig. 9As illustrated, the modular vending machine 100 can communicate with a user mobile device 700 via the network 600. The user mobile device 700 can be, for example, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop, a personal computer, or other computing device capable of connecting to the network 600 via a wired or wireless connection. In some embodiments, the user mobile device 700 can be directly connected to the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, an administrator device 800 can also be connected to the network 600 and can be used to monitor and / or send information between the user mobile device 700 and the modular vending machine 100. The administrator device 800 can be configured to manage user accounts, vending machine inventory, and process transactions. The modular vending machine 100 can notify the administrator device 800 when product inventory is low and may need to be refilled. For example, the administrator device 800 can be able to remotely connect to the control unit 400 in order to control the functions of the vending machine or diagnose technical problems.

[0049] The administrator device 800 may be configured to authenticate the customer based on the machine-readable item recognized by the item scanner 310 or the biometric characteristic recognized by the biometric scanner 320. After authenticating the customer, the administrator device 800 may associate the authenticated customer with a customer account. In some embodiments, the administrator device 800 may locate a specific customer account in a database based on the machine-readable item recognized by the item scanner 310. In some embodiments, the administrator device 800 may locate a specific customer account in a database based on the biometric characteristic recognized by the biometric scanner 320. The administrator device 800 may locate the specific customer account by comparing the recognized biometric characteristic of the customer to a database of authorized biometric characteristics.

[0050] The user mobile device 700 may include an application configured to receive information from and send information to the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, the user mobile device 700 may be configured to display information such as, for example, user account information, a list of products available for purchase and their prices, product nutritional information, images of products available for purchase, and / or an overview of the transaction. In some embodiments, the user may be required to log into the application on the user mobile device 700 (e.g., by providing a username and / or password) before interacting with the modular vending machine 100 or completing a transaction.

[0051] The control unit 400 and / or the administrator device 800 may include a memory for storing information about the modular vending machine 100 and / or the user mobile device 700. This information may include, for example, product information, modular vending machine information, user information, transaction location, transaction time, and / or other information. In some embodiments, the information may include a user's dietary restrictions, dietary preferences, or allergens.

[0052] In some embodiments, one or both of the control unit 400 and / or the administrator device 800 may maintain a list of products 10 available for sale in the modular vending machine 100. The list may be updated manually or automatically, for example, after the modular vending machine 100 has been loaded or reloaded with a product 10, or after a product 10 has been sold to a user.

[0053] During the vending operation according to some embodiments, the user may approach the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, before unlocking the product door 130, the user may be required to provide payment information using the user interface 300. In some embodiments, before unlocking the product door 130, the user may be required to confirm his / her identity. For example, the user may be required to enter an access code provided on the user mobile device 700 on the user interface 300, or the item scanner 310 may read a machine-readable item displayed on the user mobile device 700. In some embodiments, before unlocking the product compartment door 130, the modular vending machine may automatically confirm the user's identity by, for example, verifying the user's biometric characteristics using a biometric scanner 320. After the product door 130 has been unlocked, the user may enter the product compartment 120 and remove the product 10. In some embodiments, each time the product door 130 is unlocked, the light 190 may be illuminated, and then may remain illuminated until the transaction is completed with the user. The product removal sensor 170 may sense the type and quantity of the product 10 removed from the product compartment 120 by the user. In some embodiments, the transaction with the user will be automatically completed when the user closes the product door 130. In some embodiments, the user can manually complete the transaction, for example, by indicating on the user interface 300 and / or the user mobile device 700 that he / she has finished removing the product to be purchased. The user can then provide payment for the product 10 using the user interface 300 and / or the user mobile device 700.

[0054] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The modular vending machine 100 can have a variety of shapes and sizes and can be placed and / or mounted on a variety of different support structures or surfaces. For example, Figure 5 Two generally cube-shaped modular vending machines 100 are shown placed on a table 20. In some embodiments, the modular vending machine 100 can be placed on another similar elevated horizontal support surface, such as, for example, a countertop, a table, a stand, etc. Figure 6 As shown, for example, the modular vending machine 100 may also be mounted to a wall 30 or other similar vertical support structure. Figure 7As shown, for example, modular vending machine 100 may have a generally rectangular prism shape, and may be placed on and supported by ground 40. Modular vending machine may also have other shapes not shown in the drawings, such as, for example, cylindrical or conical. In some embodiments, modular vending machine may have the shape of a chessboard, so that the machine may, for example, be stacked together vertically and / or horizontally, as described in further detail below. In some embodiments, the volume of modular vending machine 100 may be between about 1 cubic foot and 10 cubic feet. In some embodiments, the volume of modular vending machine 100 may be between about 7 cubic feet and 30 cubic feet. However, the size of modular vending machine 100 may vary, and may be selected to be, for example, suitable for a particular application of the machine (e.g., placed on a table or mounted to a wall) or suitable for the amount of available space of the machine.

[0055] The modular vending machines 100 described above may be placed together in various configurations and may, for example, be stacked or positioned adjacent to each other. In some embodiments, the modular vending machines 100 may be located adjacent to each other (see, for example, Figure 3 In some embodiments, the modular vending machines 100 may be spatially separated from each other (see, e.g. Figure 6 ).

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, two or more modular vending machines 100 can be stacked together in a row. Likewise, two or more modular vending machines 100 can be arranged adjacent to each other in a row. The number of modular vending machines 100 and the positioning of the modular vending machines 100 can be selected, for example, based on the space available for the vending machines and / or the amount of product storage space required to meet consumer demand. Fig.10 As shown, for example, several columns of modular vending machines 100 of various heights may be placed adjacent to each other to more efficiently utilize available space. Any number of modular vending machines 100 may be placed together in any arrangement and may include any number of rows and columns of various or uniform lengths.

[0057] In some embodiments, each of the modular vending machines 100 may face the same direction. However, in some embodiments, the modular vending machines 100 may face a variety of directions. For example, Figure 4A and Figure 4BA column of three vending machines is shown, with the top modular vending machine and the bottom modular vending machine 100 facing the same direction, and the middle modular vending machine 100 rotated 90 degrees relative to the top modular vending machine and the bottom modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, one or more modular vending machines 100 stacked together to form a column may face opposite directions. In a configuration in which the modular vending machines 100 face more than one direction, several users may be able to stand in front of and / or interact with the column of modular vending machines 100 at a time. Such an arrangement may also provide greater visibility of the products in the modular vending machines, which may attract more customers. For example, if Figure 4A As shown, advertisements, graphics, etc. may be placed on the side 103 of the modular vending machine 100, which may also attract more customers.

[0058] Reference Figures 3 to 4B In some embodiments, the modular vending machine 100 may include a locking system 180 configured to align, connect, and / or secure two or more modular vending machines together. In some embodiments, the locking system 180 may include a connecting member 184 and a receptacle 186. The connecting member 184 may be, for example, a pin, a link, an arm, a cable, or other means for connecting and / or aligning the modular vending machine 100 together. The receptacle 186 may be, for example, a hole, a slot, a groove, etc., which is configured to accommodate the connecting member 184. In some embodiments, the receptacle 186 may be disposed on the top 104 of the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, the receptacle 186 may be disposed on one or more sides 103 of the modular vending machine 100. The receptacle 186 may also be disposed on other portions of the outer surface 106 of the modular vending machine 100. In some embodiments, the locking system 180 may be a tongue and groove system.

[0059] In some embodiments, one end of the connecting member 184 can be connected to the receiver 186 on one modular vending machine 100, and the other end of the connecting member 184 can be connected to the receiver 186 on another modular vending machine 100, thereby securing the two modular vending machines together. Figure 3 As shown, for example, the connecting member 184 may extend between two adjacent modular vending machines 100 to secure the modular vending machines in a row. In some embodiments, the legs 182 may also be configured to fit into the sockets 186 in a manner similar to the connecting member 184. Figures 3 to 4BAs shown, for example, the legs 182 may extend below the bottom 105 of one modular vending machine 100 and may be connected to the sockets 186 on the top 104 of another modular vending machine 100, thereby securing the modular vending machines 100 together in a row. In some embodiments, the connecting members 184 instead of the legs 182 may be used to secure the modular vending machines 100 together in a row. In some embodiments, the connecting members 184 and / or the legs 182 may include a locking mechanism configured to lock the connecting members 184 into their respective sockets.

[0060] In some embodiments, two or more modular vending machines 100 can be connected together by wireless or wired connection and can act as a system. As described in detail above, each modular vending machine 100 can be connected to a network 600, wherein the modular vending machine 100 can communicate with a user mobile device 700 and / or an administrator device 800. One modular vending machine 100 can also communicate with another modular vending machine 100 through the network 600. In some embodiments, the modular vending machines 100 can communicate with each other or connect to the network 600 via a transceiver 410. In some embodiments, the modular vending machines 100 can communicate with each other or connect to the network 600 via a wired connection such as, for example, an Ethernet cable. In some embodiments, the connecting member 184 may include, for example, wiring, a connection port, etc., to allow data and / or power to be transmitted between the modular vending machines 100.

[0061] In some embodiments, each modular vending machine 100 in a system of modular vending machines 100 may include a control unit 400 that controls its own functions. In some embodiments, one control unit 400 may control the functions of several modular vending machines 100. Similarly, each modular vending machine 100 in a system of modular vending machines 100 may include a corresponding user interface 300, item scanner 310, and / or biometric scanner 320. However, in some embodiments, one user interface 300, item scanner 310, and / or biometric scanner 320 may be connected to and used with several modular vending machines 100 in the system (see, e.g., Figure 3 and Figure 7 ). Reference Fig.10 and Fig.11 In some embodiments, the transaction station 500 may house the user interface 300 and / or the control unit 400 separately from the modular vending machine 100. The modular vending machine 100 may be connected to the transaction station 500 via a wired or wireless connection. Fig.11As shown, in some embodiments, a transaction station 500 may be connected to a network 600 and act as a hub for multiple modular vending machines 100 servicing a particular area.

[0062] In some embodiments, a user may interact with multiple modular vending machines 100 at one time and / or purchase products from multiple modular vending machines 100 in one transaction. During vending operations according to some embodiments, for example, a user may approach a system of modular vending machines 100. The user may be required to provide payment information and / or verify his / her identity using the user interface 300, the item scanner 310, and / or the user mobile device 700. Similarly, the user's identity may be automatically verified by the biometric scanner 320. After the payment information and / or identity information has been confirmed, two or more of the product doors 130 may be unlocked, and the user may access the corresponding product compartments 120. The user may then remove the product 10 from the product compartments 120 of two or more modular vending machines 100, and complete a single transaction based on the products removed from several product compartments. In this way, the user does not need to obtain access to each vending machine separately, and can complete only one transaction when purchasing products from different modular vending machines.

[0063] Each of the modular vending machines 100 in the system of modular vending machines need not have the same construction or contain the same types of products 10. For example, one modular vending machine 100 in the system may contain only perishable products 10 and may include a temperature control system 150, and another modular vending machine 100 in the system may contain only non-perishable products 10 and may not be temperature controlled. In some embodiments, each of the modular vending machines 100 in the system of modular vending machines has the same construction.

[0064] In some embodiments, one modular vending machine 100 may contain age-restricted products 10, such as, for example, alcoholic beverages or tobacco, and another modular vending machine 100 may contain age-unrestricted products 10. During vending operations according to some embodiments, before unlocking the product door 130, the user may be required to verify his / her identity, for example, by using an item scanner 310 or a biometric scanner 320, or by logging into an account on the user's mobile device 700 to confirm his / her age. In some embodiments, the item scanner 310 may be configured to scan and / or verify the user's identification card, such as, for example, a driver's license, a passport, etc. After determining the user's age, the appropriate product door 130 may then be unlocked. For example, if the user is old enough to purchase all products 10 contained in the modular vending machine 100, all product doors 130 may be unlocked. If the user is too young to purchase certain types of products 10, the product door 130 that locks the age-restricted products 10 may remain locked, while the product door 130 that locks the non-age-restricted products 10 may be unlocked. The user may then remove the product 10 in the unlocked product compartment 120 and provide payment therefor.

[0065] As described above, the control unit 400 and / or the administrator device 800 may store product information, transaction history, and / or user information. The stored information may be used, for example, to make product recommendations to the user. After the user approaches the modular vending machine 100 and the user's identity has been confirmed, the light 190, the user interface 300, and / or the user mobile device 700 may indicate the product 10 that the user has purchased in the past, or indicate the product 10 that the user may like based on past transactions. The light 190, the user interface 300, and / or the user mobile device 700 may indicate to the user the location of the recommended product 10 in the product compartment 120. Similarly, the light 190, the user interface 300, and / or the user mobile device 700 may indicate and / or notify the user of the product 10 that the product contains, for example, an ingredient to which the user is allergic or an ingredient that is inconsistent with the user's dietary restrictions or preferences. In some embodiments, the product door 130 that locks the product compartment 120 containing the following products 10 may remain locked, while other product doors 130 are unlocked: it is inconsistent with the user's dietary restrictions or preferences, or contains known allergens.

[0066] In some embodiments, the product removal sensor 170 may continuously or several times monitor the number of products removed and / or the value of the products removed during a transaction. In addition, the control unit 400 may limit the number of product doors 130 that can be opened at one time during a transaction. This can be used, for example, to prevent large or valuable products from being removed from the modular vending machine 100 before the transaction is completed. In some embodiments, the operator of the machine can manually select an acceptable limit on the number and / or value of products that can be removed during a transaction. In some embodiments, the acceptable limit on the number and / or value of products can be automatically determined, for example, by the control unit 400 and / or the administrator device 800.

[0067] During the vending operation according to some embodiments, after the user has provided payment information and / or his / her identity has been verified, some product doors 130 may be unlocked. After the user opens one of the product doors 130, all other product doors 130 may then be locked. Then, after the opened door has been closed, the product removal sensor 170 may determine the quantity and / or value of the product removed from the product compartment 120. If the quantity and / or value does not exceed the acceptable limit, the other product doors 130 may be unlocked so that the user can continue to remove the product. If the type, quantity and / or value exceeds the acceptable value, another one of the product doors 130 may remain locked, and the user may not be allowed to remove more products from other compartments. In some embodiments, the user may be notified, for example, via the user interface 300 and / or the user's mobile device 700 that he / she has exceeded the permitted range. Then the user may be allowed to put the product 10 back into the product compartment 120 from which the product was obtained, so that the excess value drops below the permissible limit. Alternatively, the user may then provide payment for the product and complete the transaction.

[0068] like Fig.12 As illustrated, the vending operation may include: receiving user information from a user; determining the number of products 10 disposed in the first product compartment 120 and the second product compartment 120; unlocking the first product door 130 and the second product door 130; locking the second product door 130 when the user opens the first product door 130; unlocking the second product door 130 when the first product door 130 is closed; locking the first product door and the second product door 130; and determining the number of products 10 removed from the first product compartment 120 and the second product compartment 120.

[0069] refer to Figure 8, the modular vending machine 200 may include a product storage system 210. The product storage system 210 is configured to store and / or display one or more products 10 to be sold to a user. The product storage system 210 may include a number of product compartments 220, which are housed together in a unitary housing 212. The product compartments 220 may be separated by compartment walls 214, which may be isolated to reduce heat exchange between adjacent product compartments 220. The products 10 may be placed and / or stored in the product compartments 220. In some embodiments, the product storage system 210 may include a light 290 configured to illuminate the product compartment 220 or a portion of the product compartment 220.

[0070] In some embodiments, each product compartment 220 may store a different kind of product 10. For example, non-perishable products 10 may be stored in one product compartment 220, and perishable products 10 may be stored in another product compartment 220. In some embodiments, products 10 preferably served at a temperature other than room temperature may be stored in one product compartment 220, and products 10 preferably served at room temperature may be stored in another product compartment 220. In some embodiments, all of the products 10 stored in a product compartment 220 may be of the same type, weight, volume, and / or cost.

[0071] In some embodiments, modular vending machine 200 may include a temperature control system for controlling the temperature of some or all of product compartments 220. The temperature control system may have the same features as temperature control system 150 described above and may operate in the same manner as the temperature control system described above.

[0072] Products 10 stored in product storage system 210 may be arranged in rows, columns, and / or stacks within product compartments 220. In some embodiments, products 10 need not be organized in a particular manner and may be placed in product storage system 210 in a variety of arrangements.

[0073] The modular vending machine 200 may include a product door 230 for each product compartment 220, whereby a user may access the product compartment 220 and the product 10 during vending operations. Like the product door 130, the product door 230 may be selectively accessible by a user during vending operations. The product storage system 210 may include one or more product removal sensors 270, which may have the same features as the product removal sensors 170 described above and may operate in the same manner.

[0074] The modular vending machine 200 may also include a user interface 300 and a control unit 400, as described in detail above. Fig. 9As illustrated, the modular vending machine 200 may be connected to a network 600 and communicate with a user mobile device 700 and / or an administrator device 800 in the manner described above with respect to the modular vending machine 100 .

[0075] The modular vending machine 200 can perform vending operations and / or complete transactions with users in the same manner as described above with respect to the system of the modular vending machine 100. For example, in some embodiments, the product removal sensor 270 can continuously or several times monitor the number of products removed from the product compartment 220 and / or the value of the removed products during the transaction. In addition, the control unit 400 can limit the number of product doors 230 that can be opened at one time during the transaction. This can be used, for example, to prevent a large amount or a valuable product from being removed from the modular vending machine 200 before the transaction is completed. In some embodiments, the operator of the machine can manually select an acceptable limit on the number and / or value of products that can be removed during a transaction. In some embodiments, the acceptable limit on the number and / or value of products can be automatically determined, for example, by the control unit 400 and / or the administrator device 800.

[0076] During the vending operation according to some embodiments, after the user has provided payment information and / or his / her identity has been verified, some product doors 230 may be unlocked. After the user opens one of the product doors 230, all other product doors 230 may then be locked. Then, after the opened door has been closed, the product removal sensor 270 may determine the quantity and / or value of the product removed from the product compartment 220. If the quantity and / or value do not exceed the acceptable limit, the other product doors 230 may be unlocked so that the user may continue to remove the product. If the type, quantity and / or value exceeds the acceptable value, the other of the product doors 230 will remain locked, and the user will not be allowed to remove more products from other compartments. In some embodiments, the user may be notified, for example, via the user interface 300 and / or the user's mobile device 700 that he / she has exceeded the permitted range. Then the user may be allowed to put the product 10 back into the product compartment 220 from which the product was obtained, so that the excess value drops below the permissible limit. Alternatively, the user may then provide payment for the product and complete the transaction.

[0077] As described above with respect to modular vending machine 100, modular vending machine 200 may also make recommendations to the user based on past transaction data, or may restrict access to certain product compartments based on age and / or dietary restrictions.

[0078] like Fig.12As illustrated, the vending operation may include: receiving user information from a user; determining the number of products 10 set in the first product compartment 220 and the second product compartment 220; unlocking the first product door 230 and the second product door 230; locking the second product door 230 when the user opens the first product door 230; unlocking the second product door 230 when the first product door 230 is closed; locking the first product door and the second product door 230; and determining the number of products 10 removed from the first product compartment 220 and the second product compartment 220.

[0079] Fig.13 An exemplary computer system 900 is shown in which embodiments or portions of the embodiments may be implemented as computer readable code. For example, collecting customer data (e.g., biometric data), identifying customers based on the collected data, verifying customer accounts, and / or tracking customer accounts may be implemented in the computer system 900 using hardware, software, firmware, tangible computer readable media having instructions stored thereon, or a combination thereof, and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. A controller discussed herein may be a computer system having all or some of the components of the computer system 900 for implementing the processes discussed herein.

[0080] If programmable logic is used, such logic can be executed on a commercially available processing platform or a dedicated device. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can be practiced using a variety of computer system configurations, including multi-core multiprocessor systems, minicomputers and mainframe computers, computers linked or clustered with distributed functionality, and general purpose computers or microcomputers that can be embedded in almost any device.

[0081] For example, a memory and at least one processor device may be used to implement the above embodiments. The processor device may be a single processor, multiple processors, or a combination thereof. The processor device may have one or more processor "cores".

[0082] Various embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in accordance with this exemplary computer system 900. After reading this specification, it will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art how to use other computer systems and / or computer architectures to implement one or more of the present invention. Although operations may be described as sequential processes, some operations may actually be performed in parallel, simultaneously, and / or in a distributed environment, and program code may be stored locally or remotely for access by a single processor or multi-processor machine. In addition, in some embodiments, the order of operations may be rearranged without departing from the spirit of the disclosed subject matter.

[0083] Processor device 904 may be a dedicated processor device or a general purpose processor device. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, processor device 904 may also be a single processor in a multi-core / multi-processor system, such system operating alone or in a cluster of computing devices operating in a cluster or server farm. Processor device 904 is connected to a communication infrastructure 906, such as a bus, message queue, network, or multi-core message passing scheme.

[0084] The computer system 900 also includes a main memory 908, such as a random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory 910. The secondary memory 910 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 912 or a removable storage drive 914. The removable storage drive 914 may include a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, a flash memory, etc. The removable storage drive 914 reads from and / or writes to a removable storage unit 918 in a well-known manner. The removable storage unit 918 may include a floppy disk, a tape, an optical disk, a universal serial bus (USB) drive, etc. that can be read and written by the removable storage drive 914. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, the removable storage unit 918 includes a computer-usable storage medium having computer software and / or data stored therein.

[0085] The computer system 900 (optionally) includes a display interface 902 (which may include input devices and output devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.) that forwards graphics, text, and other data from the communications infrastructure 906 (or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on a display unit 930.

[0086] In alternative implementations, the secondary memory 910 may include other similar devices for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system 900. Such devices may include, for example, a removable storage unit 922 and an interface 920. Examples of such devices may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM or PROM) and an associated socket, and other removable storage units 922 and interfaces 920 that allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 922 to the computer system 900.

[0087] The computer system 900 may also include a communication interface 924. The communication interface 924 allows software and data to be transferred between the computer system 900 and external devices. The communication interface 924 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a PCMCIA slot and card, etc. The software and data transferred via the communication interface 924 may be in the form of a signal, which may be an electrical signal, an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, or other signal that can be received via the communication interface 924. These signals may be provided to the communication interface 924 via a communication path 926. The communication path 926 carries the signal and may be implemented using wire or cable, optical fiber, a telephone line, a cellular phone link, an RF link, or other communication channel.

[0088] In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer usable medium" are generally used to refer to media such as removable storage unit 918, removable storage unit 922, and a hard disk installed in hard disk drive 912. Computer program medium and computer usable medium may also refer to memories, such as main memory 908 and secondary memory 910, which may be memory semiconductors (e.g., DRAM, etc.).

[0089] Computer programs (also referred to as computer control logic) are stored in the main memory 908 and / or the secondary memory 910. The computer programs may also be received via the communication interface 924. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the computer system 900 to implement the embodiments discussed herein. Specifically, the computer programs, when executed, enable the processor device 904 to implement the processes of the embodiments discussed herein. Thus, such computer programs represent the controller of the computer system 900. In the case of implementing the embodiments using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and may be loaded into the computer system 900 using the removable storage drive 914, the interface 920 and the hard disk drive 912 or the communication interface 924.

[0090] Embodiments of the present invention may also be directed to a computer program product comprising software stored on any computer-usable medium. When executed in one or more data processing devices, such software causes the data processing device to operate as described herein. Embodiments of the present invention may adopt any computer-usable or readable medium. Examples of computer-usable media include, but are not limited to, primary storage devices (e.g., random access memory of any type), auxiliary storage devices (e.g., hard disk drives, floppy disks, CD ROMs, ZIP disks, magnetic tapes, magnetic storage devices, and optical storage devices, MEMS, nanotechnology storage devices, etc.).

[0091] It should be understood that it is the detailed description section, rather than the summary section and the abstract section, that is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The summary section and the abstract section may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention contemplated by the inventors, and are therefore not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0092] The above description of the specific embodiments will fully reveal the general nature of the present invention, so that others can easily modify and / or adjust such specific embodiments for various applications without departing from the general concept of the present invention by applying the knowledge of the technical field without excessive experimentation. Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance given herein, such adjustments and modifications are intended to fall within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terminology herein is for the purpose of description rather than for the purpose of limitation, so that the terms or wording of this specification should be interpreted by those skilled in the art according to the teachings and guidance.

[0093] The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A modular vending system comprising: A first modular vending unit, the first modular vending unit comprising: a first product compartment having a first locking mechanism operably accessible to a user through a first door, a first product sensor configured to determine an amount of product disposed in the first product compartment, and a user interface configured to receive user information; A second modular vending unit, the second modular vending unit comprising: a second product compartment having a second locking mechanism operably accessible to a user through the second door, and a second product sensor configured to determine an amount of product disposed in the second product compartment, Wherein, during vending operation, when the user interface of the first modular vending unit receives user information, both the first door and the second door are unlocked.

2. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein only one of the first door and the second door can be opened at a time.

3. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the first modular vending unit and the second modular vending unit are vertically stackable.

4. The modular vending system of claim 1 , wherein the second modular vending unit further comprises a second user interface, wherein when user information is received by the second user interface of the second modular vending unit, both the first door and the second door are unlocked.

5. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the first modular vending unit and the second modular vending unit are configured to communicate with each other via a network.

6. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein during a vending operation, the first product sensor and the second product sensor automatically determine an amount of product removed from the first product compartment and the second product compartment and complete a transaction with the user.

7. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the first product compartment is temperature controlled.

8. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the user information received by the user interface is a machine-readable article.

9. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the user information received by the user interface is a biometric.

10. The modular vending system of claim 1, wherein the product is a packaged product.

11. A modular vending machine comprising: first product compartment; a second product compartment, the second product compartment being separate from the first product compartment; a first locking mechanism configured to automatically lock and unlock a first door of the first product compartment; a second locking mechanism configured to automatically lock and unlock a second door of the second product compartment; user interface; a product sensor system configured to determine an amount of product disposed in the first product compartment and the second product compartment; wherein during vending operation, both the first door and the second door are unlocked such that a user can access the first product compartment and the second product compartment through the first door and the second door, respectively, wherein when the first door is open, the second door is locked, or when the second door is open, the first door is locked such that only one of the first door and the second door can be opened at a time.

12. The modular vending machine of claim 11, wherein during said vending operation, a transaction is completed with said user.

13. The modular vending machine of claim 11, wherein the user interface is configured to receive input from the user.

14. The modular vending machine of claim 13, wherein the user interface is configured to receive information from a user via a user mobile device.

15. The modular vending machine of claim 11, wherein the first product compartment and the second product compartment are disposed together in a unitary housing.

16. A method of vending a product from a modular vending machine, the method comprising: receiving user information from a user; determining a quantity of product disposed in the first product compartment and the second product compartment; unlocking the first door and the second door, whereby the user can access the first product compartment and the second product compartment, respectively; locking the second door when the first door is open; unlocking the second door when the first door is closed; locking the first door and the second door; as well as An amount of product removed from the first product compartment and the second product compartment is determined.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising performing a transaction with the user.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the transaction comprises an electronic payment. The method of claim 16 , wherein the user information is received from a user via a user mobile device.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the user mobile device is a smartphone.

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