Settlement system and calculation method of vending machine

Abstract

The invention provides a settlement system and a calculation method of a vending machine, and relates to the technical field of vending machines. The settlement system of the vending machine comprises a data processing unit, a payment unit, a monitoring management module, a user interface and a change module, the data processing unit is a central processing unit and is mainly responsible for processing transaction data and executing a calculation method, and the payment unit is used for payment including but not limited to mobile payment, credit card payment and digital currency payment. And the monitoring management module is used for monitoring the state of the equipment through the camera and the sensing assembly and monitoring the stock of articles in the equipment. By considering various factors such as cost, requirements, user preferences and competitor prices, the system can implement a dynamic pricing strategy, optimize income management and improve the profit rate, meanwhile, merchants can remotely monitor and manage the vending machines, timely respond to problems and adjust the strategy, and the operation efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of automatic vending machines, and in particular to a settlement system and a calculation method for automatic vending machines. Background Art

[0002] A vending machine is a machine that can automatically deliver goods according to the coins inserted. Vending machines are commonly used equipment for commercial automation. They are not restricted by time and place, can save manpower and facilitate transactions. Vending machines are a new form of commercial retail, also known as 24-hour mini supermarkets. At present, there are four common vending machines in China: beverage vending machines, food vending machines, comprehensive vending machines, and cosmetics vending machines.

[0003] The existing settlement system and calculation method of the vending machine cannot dynamically adjust the price according to the cost, demand, user preference, and competitor price, thus reducing the revenue efficiency of the vending machine. Therefore, those skilled in the art provide a settlement system and calculation method for the vending machine to solve the problems raised in the above background technology. Summary of the invention

[0004] 1. Technical issues to be solved

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention provides a settlement system and calculation method for vending machines. By considering multiple factors such as cost, demand, user preference, and competitor prices, the system can implement dynamic pricing strategies, optimize revenue management, and improve profit margins. At the same time, merchants can remotely monitor and manage vending machines, respond to problems and adjust strategies in a timely manner, and improve operational efficiency.

[0006] (II) Technical solution

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention is implemented through the following technical solutions: a settlement system for a vending machine, including a data processing unit, a payment unit, a monitoring management module, a user interface and a change module, the data processing unit is a central processor, which is mainly responsible for processing transaction data and executing calculation methods, the payment unit is used for including but not limited to mobile payment, credit card payment, digital currency payment, the monitoring management module is used to monitor the device status through a camera and a sensor component, and monitor the inventory of items in the device, the user interface is used to provide a touch screen operation interface for users to select goods and confirm payment, and the change module is used to automatically calculate the change and verify the payment currency.

[0008] Preferably, the payment processing unit includes a commodity identification module and a payment interface, the commodity identification module is used to identify commodities using a barcode scanner or image recognition technology, and the payment interface integrates multiple payment methods, including biometric payment (fingerprint, facial recognition), coins, banknotes and other mobile payments.

[0009] Preferably, the monitoring and management module includes a remote monitoring module and a dynamic pricing module. The remote monitoring module is used by merchants to remotely monitor the status of vending machines, perform real-time data synchronization and system maintenance, and the dynamic pricing module is used to enable the system to dynamically adjust commodity prices based on inventory levels, time and location factors.

[0010] Preferably, the change module includes a currency verification module and a change calculation module, wherein the currency verification module detects counterfeit currency using machine vision and machine learning algorithms, and the change calculation module is used to automatically calculate and provide the correct amount of change;

[0011] Through the above technical solution, the present invention can implement dynamic pricing strategies, optimize revenue management, and improve profit margins by considering multiple factors such as cost, demand, user preferences, and competitor prices. At the same time, merchants can remotely monitor and manage vending machines, respond to problems and adjust strategies in a timely manner, and improve operational efficiency.

[0012] A settlement calculation method for a vending machine comprises the following steps:

[0013] S1. Payment verification and change calculation

[0014] Combined with the characteristics of payment methods, a real-time multi-layer verification mechanism and a mixed integer programming algorithm are used to optimize the combination of change coins and banknotes to reduce inventory pressure;

[0015] S2. Exception handling

[0016] Prompt any anomalies in the transaction process, such as insufficient payment, currency recognition errors, and insufficient change;

[0017] S3. Data recording and analysis

[0018] Record the information after the transaction is completed and adjust the inventory according to the sales situation.

[0019] Preferably, the step S1 payment verification and change calculation specifically includes:

[0020] Input received: The system receives the total amount of money paid by the user;

[0021] Price comparison: compare the total amount to be paid with the price of the selected item;

[0022] Balance calculation: If the total payment amount is greater than the product price, calculate the change amount;

[0023] Change verification: ensure that the change amount does not exceed the actual change amount in the machine;

[0024] Output change: Based on the calculation results, the change is issued through the change agency.

[0025] Preferably, in the S2 exception processing, the exceptions specifically include:

[0026] Insufficient payment: prompt the user to make additional payment or cancel the transaction;

[0027] Currency recognition error: Reject illegal currency and prompt the user to pay again;

[0028] Insufficient Change: Notifies the user that change may not be available and asks whether to continue the transaction.

[0029] Preferably, the data recording and analysis in step S3 specifically includes:

[0030] Transaction records: After each transaction is completed, the system records the transaction details, including time, goods, payment method, and change information;

[0031] Sales statistics: regularly summarize sales data, analyze hot-selling products, and business insights during peak hours;

[0032] Inventory management: adjust inventory according to sales situation and replenish stock in time.

[0033] Preferably, the calculation method uses a linear model to calculate the suggested retail price of the product:

[0034] [P=a_0+a_1\t imes S+a_2\t imes D+a_3\t imes U+a_4\t imes CP+a_5\times S_{factor}+a_6\t imes T_{factor}+a_7\t imes R]

[0035] Where: P is the final selling price of the product, S is the standard cost price of the product, D is the market demand index, U is the user preference score, which is based on the user's historical purchasing behavior and preference analysis, CP is the average price of the main competitors, S_{factor} is the seasonal adjustment factor, T_{factor} is the timing pricing factor, which is a time-varying calculation item, R is a random disturbance item used to capture other random factors not considered by the model, a_0, a_1, a_2, a_3, a_4, a_5, a_6, a_7 are model parameters, which are obtained through training with historical data and machine learning algorithms.

[0036] Through the above technical scheme, the vending machine based on the refined pricing formula and its timed pricing function of the present invention can not only improve the economic benefits of merchants, but also improve the shopping experience of customers, enhance the market competitiveness of enterprises, and also reflect the social responsibility and environmental awareness of enterprises.

[0037] (III) Beneficial effects

[0038] The present invention provides a settlement system and calculation method for a vending machine, which has the following beneficial effects:

[0039] 1. The present invention provides a settlement system and calculation method for a vending machine. A timed pricing function is set in the settlement system and calculation method for the vending machine of the present invention. Timed pricing allows the vending machine to dynamically adjust the price of goods according to changes in demand in different time periods, thereby raising prices during periods of high demand and lowering prices during periods of low demand, thereby maximizing overall revenue. By reasonably arranging price fluctuations, timed pricing helps to balance the supply and demand relationship in different time periods, especially by suppressing excessive demand through slightly higher prices during peak hours, and attracting customers through discounts during non-peak hours to reduce inventory backlogs.

[0040] 2. The present invention provides a settlement system and calculation method for a vending machine. The vending machine based on the refined pricing formula and its timed pricing function can not only improve the economic benefits of merchants, but also improve customers' shopping experience, enhance the market competitiveness of enterprises, and also reflect the social responsibility and environmental awareness of enterprises. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a settlement system of an automatic vending machine of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 It is a flow chart of the settlement calculation method of the vending machine of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 3 A flow chart of the payment verification and change calculation steps of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 4 This is a flow chart of the abnormality handling steps of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 5 It is a flow chart of the data recording and analysis steps of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] Embodiment 1:

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a settlement system for a vending machine, including a data processing unit, a payment unit, a monitoring management module, a user interface and a change module, wherein the data processing unit is a central processor, which is mainly responsible for processing transaction data and executing a calculation method, the payment unit is used for including but not limited to mobile payment, credit card payment, and digital currency payment, the monitoring management module is used to monitor the device status through a camera and a sensor component, and monitor the inventory of items in the device, the user interface is used to provide a touch screen operation interface for users to select goods and confirm payment, and the change module is used to automatically calculate the change and verify the payment currency;

[0049] The payment processing unit includes a commodity identification module and a payment interface. The commodity identification module is used to identify commodities using a barcode scanner or image recognition technology. The payment interface integrates multiple payment methods, including biometric payment (fingerprint, facial recognition), coins, banknotes and other mobile payments. The monitoring and management module includes a remote monitoring module and a dynamic pricing module. The remote monitoring module is used for merchants to remotely monitor the status of vending machines, perform real-time data synchronization and system maintenance. The dynamic pricing module is used for the system to dynamically adjust commodity prices according to inventory levels, time and location factors. The change module includes a currency verification module and a change calculation module. The currency verification module uses machine vision and machine learning algorithms to detect counterfeit coins. The change calculation module is used to automatically calculate and provide the correct amount of change;

[0050] By considering multiple factors such as cost, demand, user preference, and competitor prices, the system can implement dynamic pricing strategies, optimize revenue management, and improve profit margins. At the same time, merchants can remotely monitor and manage vending machines, respond to problems and adjust strategies in a timely manner, and improve operational efficiency.

[0051] Embodiment 2:

[0052] like Figure 2-5 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a settlement calculation method for a vending machine, comprising the following steps:

[0053] S1. Payment verification and change calculation

[0054] Combined with the characteristics of payment methods, a real-time multi-layer verification mechanism and a mixed integer programming algorithm are used to optimize the combination of change coins and banknotes to reduce inventory pressure;

[0055] S2. Exception handling

[0056] Prompt any anomalies in the transaction process, such as insufficient payment, currency recognition errors, and insufficient change;

[0057] S3. Data recording and analysis

[0058] Record the information after the transaction is completed and adjust the inventory according to the sales situation.

[0059] The step S1 payment verification and change calculation specifically includes:

[0060] Input received: The system receives the total amount of money paid by the user;

[0061] Price comparison: compare the total amount to be paid with the price of the selected item;

[0062] Balance calculation: If the total payment amount is greater than the product price, calculate the change amount;

[0063] Change verification: ensure that the change amount does not exceed the actual change amount in the machine;

[0064] Output change: According to the calculation results, the change is issued through the change agency;

[0065] In the S2 exception handling, the exceptions specifically include:

[0066] Insufficient payment: prompt the user to make additional payment or cancel the transaction;

[0067] Currency recognition error: Reject illegal currency and prompt the user to pay again;

[0068] Insufficient change: Notify the user that the change may not be available and ask whether to continue the transaction;

[0069] The step S3 data recording and analysis specifically includes:

[0070] Transaction records: After each transaction is completed, the system records the transaction details, including time, goods, payment method, and change information;

[0071] Sales statistics: regularly summarize sales data, analyze hot-selling products, and business insights during peak hours;

[0072] Inventory management: adjust inventory according to sales and replenish in time;

[0073] The calculation method uses a linear model to calculate the suggested retail price of the product:

[0074] [P=a_0+a_1\t imes S+a_2\t imes D+a_3\t imes U+a_4\t imes CP+a_5\times S_{factor}+a_6\t imes T_{factor}+a_7\t imes R]

[0075] Where: P is the final selling price of the product, S is the standard cost price of the product, D is the market demand index, U is the user preference score, which is based on the user's historical purchasing behavior and preference analysis, CP is the average price of the main competitors, S_{factor} is the seasonal adjustment factor, T_{factor} is the timing pricing factor, which is a time-varying calculation item, R is a random disturbance item used to capture other random factors not considered by the model, a_0, a_1, a_2, a_3, a_4, a_5, a_6, a_7 are model parameters, which are obtained through training with historical data and machine learning algorithms.

[0076] The automatic vending machine based on the refined pricing formula and the timed pricing function of the present invention can not only improve the economic benefits of merchants, but also improve the shopping experience of customers, enhance the market competitiveness of enterprises, and also reflect the social responsibility and environmental awareness of enterprises.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A settlement system for a vending machine, comprising a data processing unit, a payment unit, a monitoring management module, a user interface and a change module, characterized in that: The data processing unit is a central processing unit, which is mainly responsible for processing transaction data and executing calculation methods. The payment unit is used for including but not limited to mobile payment, credit card payment, and digital currency payment. The monitoring management module is used to monitor the device status through cameras and sensor components, as well as monitor the inventory of items in the device. The user interface is used to provide a touch screen operation interface for users to select goods and confirm payment. The change module is used to automatically calculate the change and verify the payment currency.

2. The settlement system for a vending machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The payment processing unit includes a commodity identification module and a payment interface. The commodity identification module is used to identify commodities using a barcode scanner or image recognition technology. The payment interface integrates multiple payment methods, including biometric payment (fingerprint, facial recognition), coins, banknotes and other mobile payments.

3. The settlement system for a vending machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The monitoring and management module includes a remote monitoring module and a dynamic pricing module. The remote monitoring module is used by merchants to remotely monitor the status of vending machines, perform real-time data synchronization and system maintenance, and the dynamic pricing module is used to enable the system to dynamically adjust commodity prices based on inventory levels, time and location factors.

4. The settlement system for a vending machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The change module includes a currency verification module and a change calculation module. The currency verification module uses machine vision and machine learning algorithms to detect counterfeit currency, and the change calculation module is used to automatically calculate and provide the correct amount of change.

5. A settlement calculation method for a vending machine, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: S1. Payment verification and change calculation Combined with the characteristics of payment methods, a real-time multi-layer verification mechanism and a mixed integer programming algorithm are used to optimize the combination of change coins and banknotes to reduce inventory pressure; S2. Exception handling Prompt any anomalies in the transaction process, such as insufficient payment, currency recognition errors, and insufficient change; S3. Data recording and analysis Record the information after the transaction is completed and adjust the inventory according to the sales situation.

6. The settlement calculation method for a vending machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The step S1 payment verification and change calculation specifically includes: Input received: The system receives the total amount of money paid by the user; Price comparison: compare the total amount to be paid with the price of the selected item; Balance calculation: If the total payment amount is greater than the product price, calculate the change amount; Change verification: ensure that the change amount does not exceed the actual change amount in the machine; Output change: Based on the calculation results, the change is issued through the change agency.

7. The settlement calculation method for a vending machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: In the S2 exception handling, the exceptions specifically include: Insufficient payment: prompt the user to make additional payment or cancel the transaction; Currency recognition error: Reject illegal currency and prompt the user to pay again; Insufficient Change: Notifies the user that change may not be available and asks whether to continue the transaction.

8. The settlement calculation method for a vending machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The step S3 data recording and analysis specifically includes: Transaction records: After each transaction is completed, the system records the transaction details, including time, goods, payment method, and change information; Sales statistics: regularly summarize sales data, analyze hot-selling products, and business insights during peak hours; Inventory management: adjust inventory according to sales situation and replenish stock in time.

9. The settlement calculation method for a vending machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The calculation method uses a linear model to calculate the suggested retail price of the product: [P=a_0+a_1\times S+a_2\times D+a_3\times U+a_4\times CP+a_5\times S_{factor}+a_6\times T_{factor}+a_7\times R] Where: P is the final selling price of the product, S is the standard cost price of the product, D is the market demand index, U is the user preference score, which is based on the user's historical purchasing behavior and preference analysis, CP is the average price of the main competitors, S_{factor} is the seasonal adjustment factor, T_{factor} is the timing pricing factor, which is a time-varying calculation item, R is a random disturbance item, which is used to capture other random factors not considered by the model, a_0, a_1, a_2, a_3, a_4, a_5, a_6, a_7 are model parameters, which are obtained through training with historical data and machine learning algorithms.

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