Cigarette smoking self-service system for cigarette retail terminal

Abstract

The invention discloses a smoking self-service system for a cigarette retail terminal, which belongs to the technical field of cigarette selling informatization and comprises an electrical control and communication system, a cigarette outlet mechanical device and an information management system. The electrical control and communication system comprises a host control system, a central processing unit, an internet communication module and a driving output module; a plurality of cigarette outlet mechanisms are arranged in the cigarette outlet mechanical device, each cigarette outlet mechanism comprises a cartridge clip type sealing bin, the cigarette outlet rotating wheel is driven and controlled through stepping control of the cigarette outlet control stepping motor, and the central processing unit communicates with the information management system through the internet communication module. According to the invention, cigarette stock, customer information and evaluation information can be managed, and market demand information and new product smoking conditions can be timely and accurately mastered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of information technology for selling cigarettes, and more specifically, to a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal. Background Art

[0002] In the early development stage of the self-service vending system, the breakthrough of its core technology was mainly focused on "currency recognition technology". This technology enables the machine to automatically recognize and accept coins, banknotes and other forms of currency inserted by users, thereby completing the transaction process without human intervention. With the continuous advancement of technology, currency recognition technology has developed from the initial simple mechanical recognition (such as the size limit of the coin slot) to a more complex electronic recognition system. In modern times, the self-service vending system has far exceeded the scope of a single currency recognition technology. It has become a high-tech product that integrates multiple modern scientific theoretical achievements.

[0003] Under the current economic situation, the tobacco industry is facing multiple challenges such as structural adjustment, product innovation and intensified market competition. In order to enhance brand awareness, reduce operating costs and attract consumers to try new products, tobacco companies have begun to explore new models of deploying self-service vending systems at retail terminals. Among them, the self-service system for tasting cigarettes at cigarette retail terminals, as an innovative promotional tool, has put forward more market demands, such as: attracting consumers' attention while providing a safe and convenient trial smoking experience; displaying and providing new product trial smoking services through self-service devices, directly reaching consumers, stimulating their interest in trying new products, and accelerating the market penetration of new products; collecting consumers' trial smoking feedback and purchasing behavior data, providing strong support for companies to optimize product strategies and improve marketing strategies. Summary of the invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes for cigarette retail terminals, so as to better display and provide new product trial smoking services, directly reach consumers, stimulate their interest in trying new products, and accelerate the market penetration of new products.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes for a cigarette retail terminal, comprising an electrical control and communication system, a smoke dispensing mechanical device, and an information management system, wherein the electrical control and communication system comprises a host control system, a central processing unit, an Internet communication module, and a drive output module; a plurality of smoke dispensing mechanisms are arranged in the smoke dispensing mechanical device, each smoke dispensing mechanism comprises a clip-type sealing chamber, the clip-type sealing chamber comprises a smoke dispensing control stepper motor and a smoke dispensing wheel, the smoke dispensing wheel is driven and controlled by stepping control of the smoke dispensing control stepper motor, the output end of the central processing unit is connected to the control input end of the smoke dispensing control stepper motor through the drive output module, and the central processing unit also communicates with the information management system through the Internet communication module.

[0006] Optionally, the smoke discharging mechanism further comprises an information display LCD screen and a variety selection button, wherein the variety selection button is connected to the input end of the central processor, and the output end of the central processor is connected to the input end of the information display LCD screen.

[0007] Optionally, the smoke discharging mechanism also includes a negative pressure pump and a system control board, wherein the negative pressure pump generates negative pressure to move the cigarette in the pipe of the clip-type sealed compartment until it reaches the extraction port; the system control board is connected to the extraction port and the negative pressure pump through a circuit.

[0008] Optionally, the smoke discharging mechanism further comprises a front panel lock, wherein the front panel lock is mounted on the front panel of the smoke discharging mechanism and is connected to the system control panel.

[0009] Optionally, the clip-type sealed warehouse also includes a negative pressure system, a smoke-discharging wheel and a cigarette-discharging slot, a smoke-discharging wheel shaft, a cigarette storage bin sealing cover plate, a cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft, a cigarette-discharging spring and a cigarette-discharging push plate; wherein the negative pressure system includes a negative pressure adsorption hole, a negative pressure sealing interface, a negative pressure tube, a negative pressure interface and a vacuum air hole, the negative pressure adsorption hole is arranged on the smoke-discharging path, is connected to the negative pressure source through the negative pressure tube, and utilizes the negative pressure adsorption force to assist the transmission of cigarettes; the cigarette storage bin sealing cover plate can be openably and closably installed on the cigarette storage bin through the cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft, and is used to close the cigarette storage bin; the cigarette-discharging push plate and the cigarette-discharging spring are combined and arranged inside the cigarette storage bin, and are used to push the cigarette into the pipe out of the clip-type sealed warehouse when a smoke-discharging command is received.

[0010] Optionally, the clip-type sealed bin further comprises an infrared sensor, which is arranged inside the cigarette storage bin and is used to detect the number of cigarettes in the cigarette storage bin and send a cigarette shortage signal to the system control board.

[0011] Optionally, the information management system includes a backstage administrator terminal, a mobile terminal and a computer room application data server, which are all connected via a wireless network. The backstage administrator manages and monitors the cigarette retail terminal via the backstage administrator terminal, and consumers select, taste and evaluate cigarettes at the cigarette retail terminal via the mobile terminal. All data and operations are centrally processed and stored via the computer room application data server.

[0012] Optionally, the host control system and the central processing unit are used to perform the following control:

[0013] When the customer presses the cigarette button, the user evaluation information is read through the Internet communication module;

[0014] If the user is a new user or using the device for the first time, the cigarette dispensing mechanism is controlled by the drive output module to dispense cigarettes according to the type of cigarette selected by the user.

[0015] If the user is an old user, his / her evaluation rate will be further judged: if the evaluation rate is greater than or equal to a preset evaluation rate threshold, he / she will be regarded as a high-quality customer and cigarettes will be distributed directly according to the user's choice; if the evaluation rate is lower than a preset evaluation rate threshold, a prompt message will be displayed on the information display LCD screen, requiring the user to make additional evaluations. After the user completes the additional evaluation, cigarettes will be distributed.

[0016] Optionally, the self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal further includes:

[0017] When the number of cigarettes that each user is allowed to smoke on a day or per hour is less than or equal to the first quantity threshold, the cumulative number of cigarettes that can be smoked per day is less than or equal to the second quantity threshold. If the number exceeds the first quantity threshold or the second quantity threshold, the distribution of cigarettes is stopped, and a prompt message is sent to the user through the information display LCD screen;

[0018] If the user's evaluation rate is lower than the preset evaluation rate threshold and the user refuses to make a supplementary evaluation, the cigarette distribution operation will not be performed.

[0019] Optionally, the self-service cigarette tasting system for cigarette retail terminals further includes an alarm and a reset button, the output end of the central processor is connected to the input end of the alarm, and the output end of the reset button is connected to the input end of the central processor.

[0020] The self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes for a cigarette retail terminal disclosed in the present invention has the following technical effects:

[0021] The electrical control and communication system of the present invention includes a host control system, a central processing unit, an Internet communication module and a drive output module; a plurality of groups of smoke outlet mechanisms are arranged in the smoke outlet mechanical device, each group of smoke outlet mechanisms includes a clip-type sealing chamber, the clip-type sealing chamber includes a smoke outlet control stepping motor and a smoke outlet rotating wheel, the smoke outlet rotating wheel is driven and controlled by stepping control of the smoke outlet control stepping motor, the output end of the central processing unit is connected to the control input end of the smoke outlet control stepping motor through the drive output module, and the central processing unit also communicates with the information management system through the Internet communication module. The host control system and the central processing unit are used to perform the following control: when the customer presses the cigarette dispensing button, the user evaluation information is read through the Internet communication module; if the user is a new user or is using it for the first time, the cigarette dispensing mechanism is controlled by the driving output module to dispense cigarettes directly according to the type of cigarettes selected by the user; if the user is an old user, his evaluation rate is further determined: if the evaluation rate is greater than or equal to a preset evaluation rate threshold, the customer is regarded as a high-quality customer and cigarettes are dispensed directly according to the user's selection; if the evaluation rate is lower than a preset evaluation rate threshold, a prompt message is displayed on the information display LCD screen, requiring the user to make additional evaluations, and cigarettes are dispensed after the user completes the additional evaluations.

[0022] Through the above system, customers can scan the QR code on the cigarette retail terminal in a completely self-service manner, join the manufacturer's WeChat public account, and select and obtain cigarettes for tasting, thereby completing the cigarette tasting experience and increasing the desire to buy new products. After tasting, according to the corresponding evaluation given by consumers on the corporate public platform, the manufacturer can give corresponding offline rewards. Through the information management system, the inventory of cigarettes, customer information and evaluation information can be managed, and the market demand information and the tasting status of new products can be grasped in a timely and accurate manner.

[0023] The system of the present invention has low investment, simple equipment structure and small size, and is convenient for placement on a sales terminal counter or indoor wall hanging.

[0024] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electrical control structure of a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2A flow chart of cigarette dispensing control for a self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of information interaction of an information management system for a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cigarette dispensing mechanism for a self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the front and side structures of a clip-type sealed compartment of a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] The following are marked in the figure:

[0032] 1-1, host control system; 1-2, central processing unit; 1-3, Internet communication module; 1-4, drive output module; 3-1, backstage management terminal; 3-2, mobile terminal; 3-3, computer room application data server; 4-1, information display LCD screen; 4-2, access port; 4-4, clip-type sealing chamber; 4-5, negative pressure pump; 4-6, system control panel; 4-7, variety selection button; 4-8, front panel lock; 5-1, smoke control stepper motor; 5-2 , smoke outlet wheel guard plate; 5-3, smoke outlet wheel cigarette holder slot; 5-4, negative pressure adsorption hole; 5-5, smoke outlet wheel shaft; 5-6, negative pressure sealing interface; 5-7, negative pressure tube; 5-8, smoke outlet wheel; 5-9, negative pressure interface; 5-10, vacuum air hole; 5-11, cigarette; 5-12, cigarette storage bin sealing strip; 5-13, infrared sensor; 5-14, cigarette storage bin sealing cover; 5-15, cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft; 5-16, smoke outlet spring; 5-17, smoke outlet push plate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the relative arrangement of components and steps, numerical expressions and numerical values ​​set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0034] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0035] Technologies, methods, and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the technologies, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0036] In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not limiting. Therefore, other examples of the exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0037] At present, the self-service system for tasting cigarettes used in cigarette retail terminals as an innovative promotional tool has put forward more market demands, such as: attracting consumers' attention while providing a safe and convenient trial smoking experience; directly reaching consumers through self-service devices to display and provide new product trial smoking services, stimulating their interest in trying new things and accelerating the market penetration of new products; collecting consumers' trial smoking feedback and purchase behavior data to provide strong support for companies to optimize product strategies and improve marketing strategies. This application enables customers to scan specific QR codes in a completely self-service manner, join the manufacturer's WeChat public account, and select and obtain cigarettes for tasting, thereby completing the cigarette tasting experience and increasing the desire to buy new products.

[0038] The present invention proposes an embodiment of a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal. Specifically, Figure 1 As shown, it includes an electrical control and communication system, a smoke discharging mechanical device, and an information management system. The electrical control and communication system includes a host control system 1-1, a central processing unit 1-2, an Internet communication module 1-3, and a drive output module 1-4; a plurality of groups of smoke discharging mechanisms are arranged in the smoke discharging mechanical device, each group of smoke discharging mechanisms includes a clip-type sealed compartment 4-4, and the clip-type sealed compartment 4-4 includes a smoke discharging control stepper motor 5-1 and a smoke discharging wheel 5-8, and the smoke discharging wheel 5-8 is driven and controlled by the stepping control of the smoke discharging control stepper motor 5-1. The output end of the central processing unit 1-2 is connected to the control input end of the smoke discharging control stepper motor 5-1 through the drive output module 1-4, and the central processing unit 1-2 also communicates with the information management system through the Internet communication module 1-3. It should be noted that there are multiple groups of smoke discharging mechanisms arranged inside, and each group of mechanisms works independently to meet the smoking needs of different brands or types of cigarettes. The clip-type sealed compartment 4-4 adopts a clip-type design, which is convenient for quick replacement and replenishment of cigarettes. The smoke discharging control stepper motor 5-1 is used as a driving source. Through precise stepping control, it drives the rotation of the smoke discharging wheel 5-8 to achieve accurate smoke discharging of cigarettes. The information management system is the background support of the self-service system and is responsible for data collection, processing and analysis. When customers use the self-service system, they need to scan the QR code or enter relevant information. The system records and transmits this information to the information management system.

[0039] When using the cigarette retail terminal, consumers first join the company's WeChat public account by scanning the QR code or entering relevant information. Then, they select the brand and type of cigarettes they want to smoke on the display screen of the cigarette retail terminal. After the central processor receives the selection signal, it drives the output module to control the smoke output control stepper motor to start, drives the smoke output wheel to rotate to the corresponding position, and pushes the selected cigarette to the cigarette outlet. After the consumer takes the cigarette, the system transmits the customer information to the information management system through the Internet communication module for processing and analysis.

[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 The present invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a cigarette dispensing mechanism for a self-service system for tasting cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal, wherein the cigarette dispensing mechanism further includes an information display LCD screen 4-1 and a variety selection button 4-7, wherein the variety selection button 4-7 is connected to the input end of the central processor 1-2, and the output end of the central processor 1-2 is connected to the input end of the information display LCD screen 4-1. It should be noted that the number and layout of the variety selection buttons 4-7 depend on the number of cigarette varieties supported by the system, and can be fixed or configurable, and the variety selection buttons 4-7 are provided with three indicator lights, which are green when there is inventory and red when there is no inventory. When a customer presses a variety selection button 4-7, the variety selection button 4-7 sends an electrical signal or a digital signal to the central processor 1-2, indicating that the variety selection button 4-7 is activated. After receiving this signal, the central processor 1-2 will identify which button is pressed and perform corresponding processing according to the preset logic (such as selecting the corresponding cigarette variety, updating the information on the display screen, etc.). Through the coordinated use of the information display LCD screen 4-1 and the variety selection button 4-7, the smoke dispensing mechanism can provide an intuitive and easy-to-use operating interface for customers.

[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the smoke discharging mechanical device further includes a negative pressure pump 4-5 and a system control board 4-6. The negative pressure pump 4-5 generates negative pressure (i.e., pressure lower than atmospheric pressure) to move the cigarette 5-11 in the pipe of the clip-type sealed bin 4-4 until it reaches the material dispensing port 4-2. This non-contact conveying method avoids direct contact between mechanical parts and cigarettes, reduces the risk of wear and contamination, and improves the accuracy and stability of conveying. The system control board 4-6 is connected to the material dispensing port 4-2 and the negative pressure pump 4-5 through a circuit. It should be noted that the circuit connection includes the transmission of electrical energy, command signals, and status information through power lines, signal lines, control lines, etc.; when the system receives a smoke discharging command, the system control board 4-6 sends a start signal to the negative pressure pump 4-5. The negative pressure pump 4-5 immediately starts to work, and quickly draws air through its internal mechanical structure (such as blades, pistons, etc.), thereby forming a negative pressure area in the pipe of the cigarette storage bin. This negative pressure area will generate a suction force on the cigarette toward the pickup port 4-2, so that the cigarette moves smoothly in the pipe until it reaches the pickup port 4-2 and is taken away by the customer.

[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the smoke dispensing mechanism further comprises a front panel lock 4-8, which is mounted on the front panel of the smoke dispensing mechanism and is connected to the system control panel 4-6. It should be noted that the front panel lock 4-8 ​​is mounted on the front panel of the smoke dispensing mechanism, located outside the customer operation area, adjacent to or embedded in the edge of the front panel. Such a position design not only facilitates the operation and maintenance of the management personnel, but also effectively prevents unauthorized personnel from directly accessing the internal cigarettes and mechanical structures. The system control panel 4-6 can monitor the locking state of the front panel and perform security control when necessary. For example, when the system detects that the front panel is illegally opened, the system control panel 4-6 can trigger an alarm, turn off the smoke dispensing function, or send an alarm message to the management personnel, etc., to ensure the safety of the equipment and prevent theft.

[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5The front and side structural schematic diagram of the clip-type sealed bin of the self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The clip-type sealed bin 4-4 also includes a negative pressure system, a cigarette discharging wheel card slot 5-3, a cigarette discharging wheel shaft 5-5, a cigarette storage bin sealing cover plate 5-14, a cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft 5-15, a cigarette discharging spring 5-16 and a cigarette discharging push plate 5-17; wherein the negative pressure system includes a negative pressure adsorption hole 5-4, a negative pressure sealing interface 5-6, a negative pressure pipe 5-7, a negative pressure interface 5- 9 and vacuum air holes 5-10, negative pressure adsorption holes 5-4 are arranged on the smoke outlet path, connected to the negative pressure source through the negative pressure tube 5-7, and the transmission of the cigarette 5-11 is assisted by the negative pressure adsorption force; the cigarette storage bin sealing cover plate 5-14 can be opened and closed on the cigarette storage bin through the cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft 5-15, which is used to close the cigarette storage bin; the cigarette outlet push plate 5-17 and the cigarette outlet spring 5-16 are arranged in combination inside the cigarette storage bin, which are used to push the cigarette 5-11 into the pipe of the clip-type sealed bin 4-4 when receiving the cigarette outlet command. It should be noted that the negative pressure sealing interface 5-6 and the negative pressure interface 5-9 ensure that the connection between the negative pressure tube 5-7 and the negative pressure source and the negative pressure adsorption hole 5-4 is tight and leak-free, ensuring the effective operation of the negative pressure system. The vacuum air hole 5-10 is used as an auxiliary air hole of the negative pressure system to adjust or balance the air pressure in the negative pressure area to ensure the smoothness of cigarette transmission. The cigarette storage bin sealing cover 5-14 is used to close the opening of the cigarette storage bin to prevent external factors such as dust and moisture from contaminating the cigarettes, while maintaining the humidity and temperature inside the cigarette storage bin stable. The cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft 5-15 is installed on the cigarette storage bin sealing cover 5-14, allowing the cigarette storage bin sealing cover 5-14 to rotate around the shaft to achieve opening and closing operations, which is convenient for management personnel to add or replace cigarettes while ensuring the sealing effect. The smoke outlet loading wheel card slot 5-3 is used to fix and transmit cigarettes to ensure that the cigarettes remain stable during the rotation of the smoke outlet wheel 5-8. The smoke outlet wheel shaft 5-5 is the support point for the rotation of the smoke outlet wheel 5-8. The smoke outlet wheel 5-8 is driven to rotate by a motor or other power source to achieve continuous transmission of cigarettes.

[0044] It should be noted that a smoke outlet wheel guard plate 5-2 is installed around the smoke outlet wheel 5-8 to protect the smoke outlet wheel 5-8 and its surrounding components from external interference or damage, and to ensure the stability of cigarettes during distribution. A cigarette storage bin sealing strip 5-12 is installed at the opening of the cigarette storage bin and fits tightly with the cigarette storage bin frame to ensure the sealing of the cigarette storage bin and prevent the cigarettes from being damp or contaminated.

[0045] When the system receives a smoke-discharging instruction, the system control board 4-6 will start the corresponding mechanical and electrical components. The negative pressure system starts working, generating an adsorption force on the cigarettes through the negative pressure adsorption holes 5-4, assisting the stable transmission of the cigarettes 5-11 in the pipe. At the same time, the smoke-discharging push plate 5-17 moves forward with the help of the smoke-discharging spring 5-16, pushing the cigarettes 5-11 to the smoke-discharging path. Finally, the cigarettes 5-11 are taken away by the customer through the smoke outlet. During the whole process, the sealing cover plate 5-14 of the cigarette storage bin remains closed to ensure the stability of the internal environment of the cigarette storage bin 4-4. If cigarettes need to be added or replaced, the manager can open the sealing cover plate by rotating the cigarette storage bin cover opening shaft 5-15 for operation.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present invention, the clip-type sealed bin 4-4 also includes an infrared sensor 5-13, which is arranged inside the cigarette storage bin and is used to detect the number of cigarettes 5-11 in the cigarette storage bin and send a cigarette shortage signal to the system control board 4-6. It should be noted that the infrared sensor 5-13 contains an infrared transmitter and a receiver. Under normal working conditions, the infrared transmitter will emit one or more infrared rays into the cigarette storage bin, and these infrared rays will be reflected when encountering cigarettes and received by the infrared receiver. When the number of cigarettes in the cigarette storage bin is reduced to a certain extent, so that it is impossible to block or effectively reflect all infrared rays, the infrared signal received by the infrared receiver will change. Once the infrared sensor 5-13 detects that the number of cigarettes is reduced to below the preset threshold, it will immediately convert the cigarette shortage signal into an electrical signal and transmit it to the system control board 4-6 through a circuit connection. After receiving the cigarette shortage signal, the system control board 4-6 will perform corresponding processing according to the preset program logic. For example, the alarm system can be triggered to remind the management staff to replenish cigarettes in time, or the display screen can be used to show the customer the information of lack of cigarettes and guide them to choose other types of cigarettes. The introduction of the infrared sensor 5-13 makes the management of the clip-type sealed bin 4-4 more intelligent and automated.

[0047] In the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3The figure shows an information interaction diagram of an information management system for a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention. The information management system includes a backstage manager terminal 3-1, a mobile terminal 3-2, and a computer room application data server 3-3. The backstage manager terminal 3-1, the mobile terminal 3-2, and the computer room application data server 3-3 are all connected via a wireless network. The backstage manager manages and monitors the cigarette retail terminal via the backstage manager terminal 3-1. Consumers select, taste, and evaluate cigarettes at the cigarette retail terminal via the mobile terminal 3-2. All data and operations are centrally processed and stored via the computer room application data server 3-3. It should be noted that the manager accesses the management interface of the system via the backstage manager terminal 3-1 to perform various management tasks, such as viewing sales data, inventory status, cigarette types and quantities, equipment status, etc. The mobile terminal 3-2 is such as a smart phone or a tablet computer. Consumers can interact with the cigarette retail terminal via applications or web pages on these devices. The computer room application data server 3-3 is responsible for processing all data and instructions from the backstage manager terminal and the mobile terminal. All data are centrally processed via the computer room application data server 3-3. The information management system achieves efficient management of cigarette retail terminals and optimization of customer experience by integrating components such as back-end management terminals, mobile terminals and computer room application data servers.

[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 The figure shows a flow chart of cigarette dispensing control for a self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal provided by an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the host control system 1-1 and the central processor 1-2 are used to perform the following control:

[0049] When the customer presses the cigarette dispensing button, the user evaluation information is read through the Internet communication module 1-3; when the customer presses the cigarette dispensing button on the cigarette retail terminal, this action is first captured by the host control system 1-1, and connected to the wireless network through the built-in Internet communication module 1-3 (such as a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module or a cellular data module) to retrieve user data, and identify the user identity through user account information, mobile phone number, QR code scanning, etc.

[0050] If the user is a new user or is using the device for the first time, the cigarette dispensing mechanism is controlled by driving the output modules 1-4 to dispense cigarettes directly according to the type of cigarette selected by the user.

[0051] If the user is an old user, the system will continue to read his historical evaluation information and further determine his evaluation rate (i.e., the proportion of the number of evaluations submitted by the user to the total number of purchases): if the evaluation rate is greater than or equal to a preset evaluation rate threshold, the user is considered a high-quality customer and cigarettes are distributed directly according to the user's choice; if the evaluation rate is lower than a preset evaluation rate threshold, a prompt message will be displayed on the LED screen, requiring the user to make additional evaluations. After the user completes the additional evaluation, cigarettes will be distributed. The preset evaluation rate threshold is set by the system administrator according to business needs to distinguish the service level of the user, for example, it is set to 60%. If the evaluation rate of an old user is lower than the preset evaluation rate threshold, the system will not distribute cigarettes immediately, but will display a friendly prompt message on the LED screen to encourage the user to make additional evaluations. This prompt message may include an explanation of the importance of the evaluation, instructions on how to make an evaluation, etc. After seeing the prompt, the user can choose to make additional evaluations on the terminal. Once the user completes the evaluation and submits it, the system will recalculate the evaluation rate. If the evaluation rate reaches or exceeds the preset evaluation rate threshold at this time, cigarettes will be distributed immediately; if it still does not reach it, further interaction or service restrictions may be required. Whether it is the first purchase by a new user or a purchase by an old user after evaluation, the system will update the user's purchase record and evaluation information so as to provide more personalized services next time. The host control system 1-1 and the central processor 1-2 not only realize the basic cigarette distribution function, but also improve the user experience and promote user participation through the collection and analysis of user evaluation information, and provide merchants with valuable user feedback data. The system sets an evaluation rate threshold, that is, users must complete a certain proportion of post-tasting evaluations before they can continue to enjoy the tasting service. This mechanism is designed to encourage users to actively feedback and help merchants understand the popularity of products and the direction of improvement.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal further includes:

[0053] When the number of cigarettes that each user is allowed to smoke on the same day or every hour is less than or equal to the first quantity threshold, the cumulative number of cigarettes allowed to be smoked per day is less than or equal to the second quantity threshold. If the number exceeds the first quantity threshold or the second quantity threshold, the distribution of cigarettes will be stopped, and a prompt message will be sent to the user through the LED screen. It should be noted that the setting of the first quantity threshold is intended to prevent individual users from over-consumption in a short period of time and ensure that more customers have the opportunity to experience different brands of cigarettes. For example, the system can set a maximum of 3 cigarettes per user per hour to avoid excessive concentration of resources. In addition to the hourly limit, the system also has a daily cumulative upper limit for the number of cigarettes smoked, that is, the second quantity threshold. No matter how many times a user smokes in a natural day, the total amount shall not exceed this threshold. For example, the daily cumulative upper limit is set to 6 cigarettes, aiming to balance the customer's experience needs and the rationality of resource allocation. Once the user exceeds the first quantity threshold or the second quantity threshold, the system will automatically stop distributing cigarettes and display a clear prompt message to the user through the built-in LED screen, such as "You have reached the upper limit of smoking today / this hour, thank you for your experience." By setting reasonable limits on the number of products that can be smoked, we ensure that every customer has a fair chance to experience the product. At the same time, collecting customer opinions through an evaluation mechanism will help merchants continuously optimize service quality and product selection.

[0054] If the user's evaluation rate is lower than the preset evaluation rate threshold and refuses to make additional evaluations, the cigarette distribution operation will not be performed. If the user's evaluation rate is lower than the preset evaluation rate threshold and still refuses to make additional evaluations after the system prompts, the system will suspend the user's cigarette distribution operation until the user meets the evaluation requirements or actively improves the evaluation rate. This processing method not only maintains the fairness of the system, but also promotes the improvement of user participation.

[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention, the self-service system for tasting cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal also includes an alarm and a reset button, the output end of the central processor 1-2 is connected to the input end of the alarm, and the output end of the reset button is connected to the input end of the central processor 1-2. It should be noted that when the system detects that the cigarette inventory is lower than the preset safety threshold, the sensor or mechanical component fails, and the user attempts to obtain cigarettes or damage the equipment by illegal means, the central processor 1-2 will activate the alarm through a specific signal (such as an electrical signal or a digital signal) to start working. The alarm can sound an alarm in time when an abnormal situation occurs in the system, reminding the management personnel to take corresponding measures to prevent the situation from further deteriorating.

[0056] The above describes in detail the structure, features and effects of the present invention based on the embodiments shown in the drawings, but the above is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that the technical features involved in the above embodiments and their preferred methods can be reasonably combined and matched into a variety of equivalent schemes by those skilled in the art without departing from or changing the design ideas and technical effects of the present invention; therefore, the present invention is not limited to the scope of implementation shown in the drawings, and all changes made in accordance with the concept of the present invention, or modifications to equivalent embodiments with equivalent changes, which still do not exceed the spirit covered by the specification and drawings, should be within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A self-service system for tasting and smoking cigarettes at a cigarette retail terminal, characterized in that: The invention comprises an electrical control and communication system, a smoke discharging mechanical device, and an information management system. The electrical control and communication system comprises a host control system (1-1), a central processing unit (1-2), an Internet communication module (1-3), and a drive output module (1-4). The smoke discharging mechanical device is provided with a plurality of groups of smoke discharging mechanisms, each group of smoke discharging mechanisms comprises a clip-type sealing chamber (4-4), the clip-type sealing chamber (4-4) comprises a smoke discharging control stepping motor (5-1) and a smoke discharging rotating wheel (5-8), and the smoke discharging rotating wheel (5-8) is driven and controlled by stepping control of the smoke discharging control stepping motor (5-1). The output end of the central processing unit (1-2) is connected to the control input end of the smoke discharging control stepping motor (5-1) through the drive output module (1-4), and the central processing unit (1-2) also communicates with the information management system through the Internet communication module (1-3).

2. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 1, characterized in that: The smoke dispensing mechanical device further comprises an information display liquid crystal screen (4-1) and a variety selection button (4-7), wherein the variety selection button (4-7) is connected to the input end of the central processor (1-2), and the output end of the central processor (1-2) is connected to the input end of the information display liquid crystal screen (4-1).

3. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 2, characterized in that: The smoke discharging mechanical device further comprises a negative pressure pump (4-5) and a system control board (4-6); the negative pressure pump (4-5) generates negative pressure to move the cigarette (5-11) in the pipe of the clip-type sealed compartment (4-4) until the cigarette reaches the extraction port (4-2); the system control board (4-6) is connected to the extraction port (4-2) and the negative pressure pump (4-5) via an electric circuit.

4. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 3, characterized in that: The smoke discharging mechanical device further comprises a front panel lock (4-8), wherein the front panel lock (4-8) is mounted on the front panel of the smoke discharging mechanical device and is connected to the system control panel (4-6).

5. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clip-type sealed chamber (4-4) further comprises a negative pressure system, a cigarette outlet wheel slot (5-3), a cigarette outlet rotating wheel shaft (5-5), a cigarette storage chamber sealing cover plate (5-14), a cigarette storage chamber cover opening rotating shaft (5-15), a cigarette outlet spring (5-16) and a cigarette outlet push plate (5-17); wherein the negative pressure system comprises a negative pressure adsorption hole (5-4), a negative pressure sealing interface (5-6), a negative pressure tube (5-7), a negative pressure interface (5-9) and a vacuum air hole (5-10); the negative pressure adsorption hole (5-4) is arranged at The smoke outlet path is connected to a negative pressure source via the negative pressure tube (5-7), and the transmission of the cigarette (5-11) is assisted by the negative pressure adsorption force; the cigarette storage bin sealing cover plate (5-14) is openably and closably mounted on the cigarette storage bin via the cigarette storage bin cover opening rotating shaft (5-15), and is used to seal the cigarette storage bin; the cigarette outlet push plate (5-17) and the cigarette outlet spring (5-16) are arranged in combination inside the cigarette storage bin, and are used to push the cigarette (5-11) into the pipe out of the clip-type sealing bin (4-4) when a smoke outlet command is received.

6. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 5, characterized in that: The clip-type sealed bin (4-4) further comprises an infrared sensor (5-13), which is arranged inside the cigarette storage bin and is used to detect the number of cigarettes (5-11) in the cigarette storage bin and send a cigarette shortage signal to the system control board (4-6).

7. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for a cigarette retail terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: The information management system comprises a backstage manager terminal (3-1), a mobile terminal (3-2) and a computer room application data server (3-3); the backstage manager terminal (3-1), the mobile terminal (3-2) and the computer room application data server (3-3) are all connected via a wireless network; the backstage manager manages and monitors the cigarette retail terminal via the backstage manager terminal (3-1); consumers select, taste and evaluate cigarettes at the cigarette retail terminal via the mobile terminal (3-2); and all data and operations are centrally processed and stored via the computer room application data server (3-3).

8. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 1, characterized in that: The host control system (1-1) and the central processing unit (1-2) are used to perform the following control: When the customer presses the cigarette button, the user evaluation information is read through the Internet communication module (1-3); If the user is a new user or is using the device for the first time, the cigarette dispensing mechanism is controlled by the driving output module (1-4) to dispense cigarettes directly according to the type of cigarette selected by the user; If the user is an old user, his / her evaluation rate will be further judged: if the evaluation rate is greater than or equal to a preset evaluation rate threshold, he / she will be regarded as a high-quality customer and cigarettes will be distributed directly according to the user's choice; if the evaluation rate is lower than a preset evaluation rate threshold, a prompt message will be displayed on the information display LCD screen, requiring the user to make additional evaluations. After the user completes the additional evaluation, cigarettes will be distributed.

9. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for a cigarette retail terminal according to claim 8, characterized in that: Also includes: When the number of cigarettes that each user is allowed to smoke on a day or per hour is less than or equal to the first quantity threshold, the cumulative number of cigarettes that can be smoked per day is less than or equal to the second quantity threshold. If the number exceeds the first quantity threshold or the second quantity threshold, the distribution of cigarettes is stopped, and a prompt message is sent to the user through the information display LCD screen; If the user's evaluation rate is lower than the preset evaluation rate threshold and the user refuses to make a supplementary evaluation, the cigarette distribution operation will not be performed.

10. The self-service cigarette tasting and smoking system for cigarette retail terminals according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes an alarm and a reset button. The output end of the central processing unit is connected to the input end of the alarm, and the output end of the reset button is connected to the input end of the central processing unit.

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