System with a storage device and a goods dispensing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) for selling goods, comprising a first storage device (200) and a goods dispensing device (100). The first storage device (200) comprises a first storage area (210) configured for storing goods (270), a first housing (260) with two opposite sides (261, 262), the first housing (260) having a first transfer opening (230) on one of the two opposite sides (261, 262), and a first conveyor (220). The first storage device (200) is configured to remove goods from the first storage area (210) and to provide them on the first conveyor (220), and the first conveyor (220) is configured to convey goods removed from the first storage area (210) within the first storage device (200), in a first transfer direction (274), towards the first transfer opening (230).The goods dispensing device (100) comprises an operating element (120) comprising a selection device (121) by means of which the goods to be removed from the first storage area (110) of the first storage device (200) can be selected, an dispensing device (130) in which goods can be made available for removal from a removal opening (131) on an end face (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100), and a goods receiving opening (190) which is configured to receive goods conveyed from the first conveyor (220) to the first transfer opening (230). The first storage device (200) and the goods dispensing device (100) are arranged laterally adjacent to one another in such a way that the first transfer direction (274) is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the end face (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system comprising a storage device and a goods dispensing device. State of the art

[0002] Vending machines are commonly used to sell goods, especially outside of regular opening hours, near supermarkets, airports, or train stations. These vending machines hold specific items, from which the desired item can be selected using an input device on the vending machine. After payment, the item is released. Typically, a corresponding compartment containing the item is released for this purpose.

[0003] There are also vending machines that feature a handling system that allows the selected product to be transferred to a special dispensing compartment. One of the disadvantages of such vending machines is that only certain types of products can be sold, and only individually, making the usual purchase of many different products almost impossible.

[0004] Furthermore, if a large number of goods are to be sold, many vending machines must be installed, and a customer must purchase the desired goods stored in each vending machine.

[0005] Against this background, the task is to provide the customer with an opportunity to sell as many different goods as possible while saving as much time as possible. Disclosure of the invention

[0006] According to the invention, a system comprising a storage device for storing goods and a goods dispensing device for dispensing goods, as well as a method for operating the system, is proposed. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0007] The system can be installed both inside buildings, where it is protected from the elements, and outside buildings.

[0008] A goods dispensing device and a storage device are described below. In particular, the goods dispensing device can be used alone or in conjunction with one or more storage devices. The goods dispensing device will be described first, followed by the storage device.

[0009] A goods dispensing device is used to sell goods and has an operating element comprising a selection device by means of which goods to be removed from the goods storage area can be selected, and a dispensing device in which goods can be made available for removal from the goods dispensing device. The goods dispensing device can itself have a goods storage area configured for storing goods; alternatively or additionally, the goods can be stored in one or more storage devices (separate from the goods dispensing device). When reference is made here and below to a goods storage area in the singular, it should be noted that this is also intended to include several subdivided and separately arranged goods storage areas.The goods may, without restriction of generality, be fresh or packaged food, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, drugstore items, medicines, tobacco products, etc. If the goods dispensing device is set up for the sale of goods, the operating element and the dispensing device are located on a front or end of the goods dispensing device.

[0010] Furthermore, the goods dispensing device is configured to remove selected goods from the goods storage area after release and to make them available for removal in the dispensing device. For this purpose, the goods dispensing device and / or storage device can, in particular, comprise an automated handling system by means of which goods can be removed from the goods storage area and transported to the dispensing device. For this purpose, the dispensing device can, in particular, comprise a removal opening arranged on a front side of the goods dispensing device and through which customers who have purchased goods can remove them from the goods dispensing device after release.

[0011] In a first aspect of the invention, a goods dispensing device with a corresponding goods storage area is described. The operating element of the goods dispensing device is attached to at least one first linear guide of the goods dispensing device and is movably connected to the goods dispensing device via the at least one first linear guide, so that the operating element as such can be pulled away from the rest of the goods dispensing device. The at least one first linear guide can be designed in particular as a rail and associated rail guide on which the rail is movably mounted, a telescopic extension, or a round rod with a recirculating ball bushing. In particular, two first linear guides can also be provided for improved stability.

[0012] As a result, the operating element can be brought into an extended state and a non-extended state, wherein, in the extended state, the operating element and the one goods storage area are spaced apart from one another, and the operating element is arranged next to or adjacent to the dispensing device, and wherein, in the non-extended state, the operating element and the dispensing device are arranged, at least substantially, in alignment with one another. In the non-extended state, the operating element and the dispensing device thus form a uniform surface which corresponds in particular to the front or front side of the goods dispensing device. The operating element lies against the goods storage area or is directly adjacent to the goods storage area.

[0013] Because the control element and thus part of the front of the goods dispensing device can be pulled out, it is possible to make the goods storage area of ​​the goods dispensing device accessible from the front even when there is little available space to the side of the goods dispensing device, which is blocked or otherwise restricted, for example, by a wall or other goods dispensing devices or other storage devices.

[0014] Furthermore, with this solution, the storage area is not directly visible to customers or other persons, even when opened and extended, so they cannot see which and how many goods are currently in the storage area. This significantly reduces the possibility of theft—and unauthorized access to the goods in general.

[0015] Since the goods dispensing device is also designed to make the selected goods available for withdrawal only after they have been released, it is also ensured that goods cannot be withdrawn without authorization, for example without payment.

[0016] In one embodiment, the selection device has a display and / or input means and is configured to display the types of goods stored in the goods storage area on the display and / or input means and / or to make and receive an input for selecting selected goods. This can, for example, be a touch panel on which a user is shown available goods or types of goods, i.e. goods currently present in the goods dispensing device or in the goods storage area, and which the user can then select as desired. The goods selected by the user in this way can then, for example, be transported to the dispensing device by means of the handling system, as mentioned.

[0017] In one embodiment, the operating element further comprises a payment device configured to make and receive payment for the selected goods. Furthermore, the goods dispensing device is advantageously configured to only issue authorization after payment has been made. The payment device can be configured for payment by debit or credit card and / or cash. However, other options are also conceivable, such as payment via NFC chip or the like. Reference is also made to the following explanations in this regard. This enables a customer to pay for and then receive their selected goods on site at the goods dispensing device.

[0018] The control element can furthermore, in particular, have an age verification device with which the customer's age can be verified. This enables the sale of goods subject to age restrictions. It is advisable for the goods dispensing device to only release goods subject to age restrictions after verifying that the customer has reached the minimum age for purchasing the goods.

[0019] It is particularly useful if the goods dispensing device is configured to remove the selected goods from the warehouse area using the handling system only after they have been released, and then to make them available for removal in the at least one dispensing device. This means that not only are the goods not made available for removal until they have been released (i.e., in particular, after payment or age verification), but they are also only removed from the warehouse area after they have been released. This can ensure, for example, that no goods are unnecessarily removed from the warehouse area until it is certain whether the goods will be paid for or whether the customer is even authorized to purchase the goods.

[0020] In one embodiment, the operating element, in the extended state, is spaced at least far enough from the goods storage area that a door of the goods dispensing device, by means of which the goods storage area can be locked, can be opened, in particular can be opened completely.

[0021] On the one hand, the goods storage area can be closed off and thus secured by another element. On the other hand, the fact that the door can be opened completely ensures that employees who want to fill and / or maintain the goods dispensing device have easy access to the goods storage area. In this context, it is also expedient if the at least one first linear guide is arranged at an upper end of the goods dispensing device in order to facilitate accessibility. In particular, the operating element can also be connected to the goods dispensing device via more than one linear guide. It is particularly expedient for the linear guides to be provided at the upper end or on one side of the goods dispensing device.

[0022] In one embodiment, the goods dispensing device is further configured to receive information about selected goods to be removed from the warehouse area. It is particularly expedient if the goods dispensing device blocks the goods to be removed from further selection based on the received information, for example, using a control device.

[0023] In one embodiment, the goods dispensing device has a housing that surrounds at least the goods storage area on at least four sides, wherein the operating element and the dispensing unit are arranged flush with the housing in the non-extended state, i.e. preferably fit seamlessly into the housing. The housing can surround the goods storage area in particular on the sides not covered by the operating element or the door, i.e. on the back, the top and both sides of the goods dispensing device. Furthermore, the housing can surround the goods storage area on the underside. In this case, the goods dispensing device can in particular have a frame that is connected to the housing and by means of which the goods dispensing device can be set up at a distance from a base. Furthermore, the housing can in particular have a lock with which the operating element can be locked to the housing.The locking mechanism can be unlocked in particular via a lock arranged on the control element.

[0024] In one embodiment, the goods dispensing device comprises a control unit connected to the goods dispensing device via a second linear guide. If the goods dispensing device comprises a housing, the control unit can be connected, in particular, to the housing of the goods dispensing device. The control unit can be moved via the second linear guide in such a way that its spatial position can be changed.

[0025] This allows the control unit to be easily moved relative to the goods dispensing device and simplifies access to the control unit, for example for maintenance purposes.

[0026] The control unit is primarily used to control the goods dispensing device. Thus, the display and input on the selection device can be controlled by the control unit or transmitted to the control unit.

[0027] Furthermore, the control unit can release the goods for removal from the warehouse area and provision in the dispensing unit if the control unit receives a corresponding signal from the payment device and / or the age verification device.

[0028] In one embodiment, the goods dispensing device has a power supply line via which the operating element can be supplied with power, and / or a data transmission line via which the operating element can communicate with the rest of the goods dispensing device, in particular the aforementioned control unit. The power supply line and / or the data transmission line run at least partially in the at least one first linear guide, for example, if the first linear guide is configured as a rail and rail guide, in the at least one rail guide and / or the at least one rail.

[0029] If the goods dispensing device has only a single first linear guide, both lines run in the same first linear guide. However, if the goods dispensing device has multiple first linear guides, the power supply line and the data transmission line can run in the same first linear guide or in different first linear guides.

[0030] Furthermore, it is also conceivable to have multiple power supply lines and / or data transmission lines, for example, for redundancy or to transmit information to different parts of the control element. In this case, the lines can be distributed among different first linear guides or run in the same linear guide. In particular, it is conceivable that, to increase safety, for example, in the case of redundancy, lines with the same function (power supply or data transmission) run in different first linear guides.

[0031] In one embodiment, the at least one first linear guide comprises a linear motor configured to move the control element into the extended state and the non-extended state. For example, the motor can be activated by a technician using a combination on the control panel or by pressing a button accessible only to the technician. This allows the control element to be easily moved into the extended or non-extended state.

[0032] In one embodiment, the operating element is pivotably connected, in particular via a hinge, to the at least one first linear guide. This allows the operating element, after being moved into the extended state, to be moved away to one side, thereby increasing the space between the operating element and the goods storage area. This gives a technician more room to maintain the goods dispensing device or to restock the goods storage area.

[0033] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a system comprising a goods dispensing device and one or more storage devices. For ease of illustration, the storage device and its properties are described below before the system is described.

[0034] A storage device is used to store goods. The storage device comprises a storage area configured for storing goods, a housing with two opposite sides, and a conveyor, in particular a conveyor belt. The housing has a transfer opening on one of the two opposite sides. The storage device is configured to remove goods from the storage area and place them on the conveyor, e.g., by means of an automated handling system. The conveyor is configured to transport goods removed from the storage area within the storage device in a transfer direction toward the transfer opening.

[0035] In particular, the transfer opening is not configured to dispense the goods removed from the storage area directly to the customer, but rather to transfer the removed goods to a goods dispensing device having a dispensing unit, so that the customer can remove the goods from the dispensing unit of the goods dispensing device. The goods dispensing device can, for example, be a goods dispensing device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0036] The storage facility may, for example, also have a window or display window through which the customer can inspect the available goods.

[0037] The following describes a system that includes a goods dispensing device and one or more storage devices. The storage devices generally have the same structure as described above and may include additional elements depending on the situation.

[0038] A system for selling goods comprises a goods dispensing device and a first storage device as described above, in particular in the various embodiments. The goods dispensing device has a goods receiving opening which is configured to receive goods conveyed by the first conveyor in the first forwarding direction to the first forwarding opening. Furthermore, the first storage device and the goods dispensing device are arranged laterally adjacent to one another in such a way that the first forwarding direction of the first storage device is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side of the goods dispensing device. In particular, the first storage device and the goods dispensing device are arranged laterally adjacent to one another in such a way that the forwarding opening and the goods receiving opening overlap one another or completely coincide.

[0039] It should be noted briefly here that the goods dispensing device, when used in a system with a storage device, does not necessarily have to include its own storage area.

[0040] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a second storage device as described above, wherein the first storage device and the second storage device are arranged on opposite sides of the goods dispensing device and laterally adjacent thereto, and the goods dispensing device has two goods receiving openings. One of the goods receiving openings is configured to receive goods conveyed by the first conveyor of the first storage device to the first transfer opening, and the other of the goods receiving openings is configured to receive goods conveyed by the second conveyor of the second storage device to the second transfer opening.Furthermore, the first storage device and the second storage device are arranged laterally adjacent to the goods dispensing device on opposite sides in such a way that the first forwarding direction and the second forwarding direction are substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side of the goods dispensing device. In particular, the first storage device and the second storage device are arranged laterally adjacent to the goods dispensing device (namely, immediately "left and right" of it) in such a way that the first forwarding opening of the first storage device overlaps or coincides with the corresponding goods receiving opening of the goods dispensing device, and the second forwarding opening of the second storage device overlaps or coincides with the corresponding other goods receiving opening of the goods dispensing device.

[0041] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a third storage device (in the sense of "a third type of storage device") as described above, wherein the third storage device is arranged on a side of the first storage device opposite the goods dispensing device and laterally adjacent to the latter. In this case, two storage devices are arranged next to one another, each to the left or right of the goods dispensing device. The first storage device has a receiving opening through which goods can be received from a third conveyor of the third storage device, which conveys goods in a third forwarding direction, and the third storage device is arranged laterally adjacent to the first storage device such that the third forwarding direction is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side of the goods dispensing device.In particular, the third storage device is arranged laterally adjacent to the first storage device in such a way that a third transfer opening of the third storage device overlaps or coincides with the receiving opening of the first storage device. It should be noted that in practice the third transfer direction generally coincides with either the above-mentioned first or second transfer direction, since the two storage devices are arranged next to one another. Without limiting the generality, this case should be assumed unless otherwise stated. In this case, the first and third storage devices can have the same conveyor, i.e. a conveyor that extends over both storage devices.It is advantageous if the said conveying means run in the lower part of the respective storage devices, i.e. if the goods are first placed downwards onto the respective conveying means of a storage device and are transported on the conveying means in a lateral direction to the adjacent goods dispensing device.

[0042] For example, only the first and second storage devices, or only the first and third storage devices, can be provided, but also the first, second, and third storage devices. In particular, more than three storage devices can be combined with one goods dispensing device in a modular manner.

[0043] Overall, this aspect of the invention offers the advantage that multiple storage devices, in which, for example, goods are stored at different temperature levels, can be combined to form a single sales system. The number and type of goods are also largely unlimitedly scalable. The goods dispensing device can also stock goods itself. Overall, this significantly improves the customer's shopping experience and allows it to be completed in a shorter time than before. In particular, the initial transfer of goods within a storage device downwards onto a conveyor and the subsequent lateral transfer or conveyance of goods to a common goods dispensing device, which is installed in particular in the lower part of the single, i.e., central, goods dispensing device, is a key factor in this.

[0044] In one embodiment, each of the storage devices is connected to the goods dispensing device via a data interface of the goods dispensing device, wherein the goods dispensing device is configured to transmit information about selected and / or released goods to the storage devices via the data interface.

[0045] In one embodiment, the selection device comprises a display and / or input means, in particular a touch panel, wherein the selection device is configured to display on the display and / or input means the goods stored in the storage areas of the goods dispensing device, or at least one of the first, the second and the third storage devices (in particular all storage devices that are present) and / or to make and receive an input for selecting selected goods.

[0046] In one embodiment, the operating element further comprises a payment device configured to receive payment for the selected goods. Preferably, the goods dispensing device is configured to issue the release only after payment has been made.

[0047] In one embodiment, the goods dispensing device is configured to receive information about selected goods to be removed from the storage areas of the goods dispensing device and / or at least one of the first, second and third storage devices (in particular all storage devices that are present), and to block the goods to be removed according to the received information for further selection.

[0048] In one embodiment, the conveying means are designed such that they rise, fall or run flat or horizontally in the respective transfer direction towards the respective transfer opening, in particular parallel to a floor on which the storage device is set up. The conveying means is in particular arranged such that the end of the conveying means closest to the transfer opening is higher or lower (above a floor on which the storage device stands) than the end of the conveying means remote from the transfer opening. The angle of the conveying means to a horizontal (the floor) is preferably 0° or at least 5° or at least 10° or at least 15°, but at most in particular 45°, more particularly 30°, more particularly 20°.

[0049] In one embodiment, one, several, or all of the conveying means further comprise at least one carrier, in particular at least one carrier lug. The carrier can ensure that goods placed on the conveying means are reliably transported in the transfer direction to the transfer opening, particularly if the conveyor rises toward the transfer opening.

[0050] In one embodiment, the storage device is configured to remove selected goods from the at least one storage area by means of the handling system after release and to place them on the conveyor. Release is performed by a goods dispensing device, which, in particular, only grants release if the goods have been paid for and / or age verification for age-restricted goods has taken place.

[0051] The invention further relates to a method for operating the system in the latter embodiment, wherein selected goods to be removed from the storage areas of at least one of the first, second and third storage devices (in particular all storage devices that are present) are detected, and the selected goods, after receipt of the release, are removed from the corresponding storage areas in the corresponding storage devices by means of the handling system and are provided on the corresponding conveyor and transported to the output device of the goods output device.

[0052] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0053] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0054] The invention is illustrated schematically in the drawing using an embodiment and is described below with reference to the drawing. Character description Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b, Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b show a goods dispensing device in one embodiment in different views, Fig. 3a, Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c show a bearing device in one embodiment in different views, and Fig. 4 to 8 show different embodiments of the system for selling goods.

[0055] In the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b, Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b shows a goods dispensing device 100 in one embodiment in various views. The goods dispensing device 100 serves for the sale of goods, in particular tobacco products. The following Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b, Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b are described together. Fig. 1a shows a front view of the goods dispensing device 100, which Fig. 1b a perspective view and the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b each shows a cross-section of the goods dispensing device 100 in side view.

[0056] The goods dispensing device 100 comprises a goods storage area 110 configured for storing goods, an operating element 120 with a selection device 121, by means of which goods to be removed from the goods storage area 110 can be selected, and an dispensing device 130, in which goods can be provided for removal from the goods dispensing device 100. The operating element 120 and the dispensing device 130 are arranged adjacent to one another, such that the operating element 120 and the dispensing device 130 form at least part of a front side or end face 100A of the goods dispensing device 100, wherein the operating element 120 is arranged above the dispensing device 130.

[0057] The illustrated selection device 121 of the operating element 120 can, for example, have a display and / or input means, in particular a touch panel, on which the goods stored in the storage area 110 can be displayed and an input for selecting the stored goods can be made and received.

[0058] The operating element 120 further comprises a payment device 122, by means of which the selected goods can be paid, and an age verification unit 123, by means of which the customer's age can be verified. For this purpose, a means for reading a driver's license or the like can be integrated. It is also conceivable that an age verification unit is integrated into the payment device 122.

[0059] The goods dispensing device 100 is further configured to remove the selected goods from the goods storage area 110 after release and to make them available for removal in the dispensing device 130. For this purpose, the dispensing device 130 has, in particular, a removal opening 131 through which a customer can reach into a compartment 132 of the dispensing device 130 to remove the provided goods. Furthermore, the goods dispensing device 100 can have a handling system that serves to remove the goods from the goods storage area 110, or the storage compartments provided therein, and transport them to the dispensing device 130. The removal opening 131 can be covered, for example, by a flap, but it can also simply be an opening through which the customer can easily grasp the goods.

[0060] The operating element 120 is further connected to the rest of the goods dispensing device 100 via at least one (first) linear guide 140, which is designed as a first rail 141, wherein the at least one first rail 141 is movably connected to the goods dispensing device 100 via at least one first rail guide 141 of the goods dispensing device 100 such that the operating element 120 can be brought into an extended state and into a non-extended state. The at least one first rail 141 and first rail guide 142 can in particular be a telescopic rail system. In the Fig. 2a and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2b, two first rails 141 are shown, each extending in a first rail guide 142. One of the two first rails 141 is connected to the operating element 120 at an upper end of the operating element 120, while the other first rail 141 is connected to a lower end of the operating element 120. The goods dispensing device 100 has two first rail guides 142 at the corresponding locations.

[0061] In the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1b, two first rails 141 are also shown as the first linear guide 140, each of which runs in a first rail guide 142, but both first rails 141 and first rail guides 142 are connected to the operating element 120 at the upper end of the operating element 120 or are provided there.

[0062] In the extended state, the operating element 120 and the goods storage area 110 are spaced apart from each other and in the non-extended state, the operating element 120 and the output device 130 are arranged in alignment with each other.

[0063] Fig. Figure 2a shows the goods dispensing device 100 in the non-extended state. The first two rails 141 are fully inserted into the first rail guides 142.

[0064] Fig. 1b and Fig. 2b show the goods dispensing device 100 in the extended state. A door 150 can also be seen, with which the goods storage area 110 can be further closed. The operating element 120 is movable such that the door 150 can be fully opened in the extended state, as shown in Fig. 2b indicated.

[0065] Furthermore, the goods dispensing device 100 has a housing 160 that surrounds the goods storage area 110 on at least four sides. The operating element 120 and the dispensing unit 130 are arranged flush with the housing 160 when the operating element 120 is not extended, i.e., they fit seamlessly into the housing. The housing 160 surrounds the goods storage area 110, in particular on the sides not covered by the operating element 120 or the door 150, for example, on the rear, the top, and both sides of the goods dispensing device 100. Furthermore, the housing 160 can surround the goods storage area 110 on the underside.

[0066] Furthermore, a frame 170 can be connected to the housing 160, with which the goods dispensing device 100 can be placed on a base. The frame 170 can, in particular, have feet, for example as shown in the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b, Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, have four feet. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the frame 170 has runners on which the goods dispensing device 100 is placed.

[0067] Furthermore, the housing 160 has a locking mechanism (not shown) with which the operating element 120 can be locked to the housing 160. The locking mechanism can be unlocked, in particular, via a lock arranged on the operating element 120.

[0068] To control the individual elements and units of the goods dispensing device 100, the latter further comprises a control unit 180, which is connected to the goods dispensing device 100 via at least one second linear guide 181 via the housing 160. In the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b, the control unit 180 is arranged below the goods storage area 110 and can be pulled out laterally in a horizontal direction under the goods dispensing device 100 by means of the second linear guide 181. The second linear guide 181 can again be a system consisting of a rail and rail guide, although other configurations are also conceivable.

[0069] The control unit 180 serves, for example, to store information about the inventory in the warehouse area 110 and to display this information on the selection device 121 of the operating element 120. Furthermore, the control unit 180 receives input information about the selected goods from the operating element 120 and can use this information to block further selection of these goods. Based on the information about whether the goods were paid for using the payment device 122 and / or whether the customer's age was verified using the age verification device 123, the control unit 180 can grant or deny approval and instruct the handling system (not shown) to remove the selected goods from the warehouse area 110 and provide them in the dispensing device 130.In particular, a flap with which the removal opening 131 of the dispensing device 130 is covered can be blocked until all goods are provided in the compartment 132 of the dispensing device 130, so that injuries caused by goods transported further into the compartment 132 can be prevented.

[0070] The operating element 120 is connected to the goods dispensing device 100 via a power supply line, via which the operating element 120 can be supplied with power, and / or a data transmission line, via which the operating element 120 can communicate with the goods dispensing device 100. The operating element 120 is connected in particular to the control unit 180 via the data transmission line and transmits and / or receives information to and / or from the control unit 180.

[0071] The power supply line and the data transmission line can run or be laid at least partially in the same first linear guide 140 or in different ones of the first linear guides 140.

[0072] Fig. 3a, Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c show a bearing device 200 in one embodiment in a front view ( Fig. 3a), a cross-section in front view ( Fig. 3b) and a side view ( Fig. 3c). The Fig. 3a, Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c are described together below.

[0073] The storage device 200 comprises a storage area 210 configured for storing goods 270, and a housing 260 with two opposing side surfaces 261, 262 surrounding the storage area 210. The housing 260 surrounds the storage area 210 on all sides and has a window 250 on a front side or end face 200A through which the customer can view the goods 270 in the storage area 210.

[0074] In Fig. 3b shows a frontal cross-section through the storage device 200, revealing a conveyor 220. The conveyor 220 can be, for example, a conveyor belt. With the conveyor 220, selected goods that are removed from the storage area 210, for example by a handling system 272, and moved downwards onto the conveyor 220, can be transported in a transfer direction 274 toward a transfer opening 230 arranged in one of the opposite side surfaces. The goods can be provided in the storage area 210, for example, in several shelves arranged one above the other or the like. On the side surface opposite the transfer opening, the storage device 200 further has a receiving opening 240. The arrangement of the transfer opening 230 on the right and the receiving opening 240 on the left is freely selected in the embodiment shown.Through the transfer opening 230, goods removed from the storage area 210 can be transferred via the conveyor 220 to a goods dispensing device 100 located next to the storage device 200, so that they can be made available for removal in the dispensing area 130 of the goods dispensing device 100. Through the receiving opening 240, goods can be received from additional storage devices 300, 400 located adjacent to the storage device 200.

[0075] The conveyor 220 shown is in a horizontal state in this embodiment. When the storage device 200 is set up, the conveyor 220 can be maintained in a horizontal state or tilted in a direction such that the end of the conveyor closer to the transfer opening 230 is higher or lower than the end closer to the receiving opening 240, i.e., the conveyor 220 has an inclination that rises or falls towards the transfer opening 230 (see Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). Furthermore, the conveyor 220 can have carriers, in particular carrier points, with which the goods are carried along as the conveyor 220 moves.

[0076] Depending on requirements, the receiving opening 240 and the forwarding opening 230 can also be swapped.

[0077] Fig. 3c shows the storage device 200 in a side view with the side surface in which the transfer opening 230 is arranged. The transfer opening 230 shown is arranged near the front side. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to arrange the transfer opening 230 centrally or at a rear end, i.e., near the rear side, on the side surface. The same applies to the receiving opening 240.

[0078] In the Fig. Figures 4 to 8 show various embodiments of the system for selling goods.

[0079] The Fig. The system 1000a shown in Figure 4 comprises a goods dispensing device 100 and a first storage device 200, which, in a front view, is arranged to the left of the goods dispensing device 100. Since no further storage devices 200 are provided, the storage device 200 has only a transfer opening 230 and no receiving opening 240 (a receiving opening could also be present, which is, for example, closed). Furthermore, the goods dispensing device 100 has a goods receiving opening 190. The storage device 200 and the goods dispensing device 100 are arranged laterally adjacent to one another in such a way that the first transfer direction 274 is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the end face 100A of the goods dispensing device 100. The transfer opening 230 of the first storage device 200 and the goods receiving opening 190 of the goods dispensing device 100 overlap.As a result, goods can be transported by the first conveying means 220 (shown in dashed lines), which has an inclination increasing towards the transfer opening 230 in a first transfer direction 274, through the transfer opening 230 of the storage device 200 and the goods receiving opening 190 of the goods dispensing device 100 into the dispensing device 130 of the goods dispensing device 100.

[0080] To prevent interference in or through the goods receiving opening 190 and the transfer opening 230, the goods receiving opening 230 can be covered, for example, by a flap that is opened during the transport of the goods and then closed. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the goods dispensing device 100 to be configured to keep a flap covering the removal opening 131 of the dispensing device 130 closed while goods are being transported in the system 1000 and to only allow the flap to open once all selected and released goods have arrived in the compartment 132 of the dispensing device 130.

[0081] The storage device 200 is further connected to a data interface (not shown) of the goods dispensing device 100 and transmits and / or receives information from and / or to the goods dispensing device 100, in particular the control unit 180 of the goods dispensing device 100. The information includes, for example, the inventory in the storage area 210 of the first storage device 200. Furthermore, the storage device 200 receives information via the data interface about which goods are to be blocked because they were selected via the selection device 121 of the operating element 120 of the goods dispensing device 100 and / or information about which goods are to be brought onto the first conveyor 220 and transported to the dispensing device 130 by the handling system 272 (not shown) because the goods dispensing device 100 or the control unit 180 has issued a release after payment and / or age verification.

[0082] Fig. 5 shows another embodiment of the system, system 1000b. In contrast to the Fig. 4, the bearing device 200 is in Fig. 5, in front view, is arranged to the right of the goods dispensing device 100. As a result, the transfer opening 230 and the goods receiving opening 190 were also shifted to the respective other sides of the goods dispensing device 100 and storage device 200. Furthermore, the first conveyor 220 is inclined such that the lower end is located near the transfer opening 230.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of the system, system 1000c. In the embodiment shown, system 1000c has a first storage device 200 and a second storage device 300. The first storage device 200 is arranged to the left of the goods dispensing device 100, while the second storage device 300 is arranged to the right of the goods dispensing device 100. Both storage devices 200, 300 have a transfer opening 230, 330, but without a receiving opening. The goods dispensing device 100 has not just one, but two goods receiving openings 190, one on each side, so that each of the first and second conveyors 220, 320 of the first and second storage devices 200, 300 can transport goods from the storage area 210, 310 to the output device 130 of the goods dispensing device 100.The first and second conveying means 220, 320 of the first and second storage devices 200, 300 are aligned flat and parallel to the ground.

[0084] Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment of the system, system 1000d, which again has two storage devices, a first storage device 200 and a third storage device 200'. The first storage device 200 is, as in Fig. 4, is arranged in front view to the left of the goods dispensing device 100 and has a transfer opening 230 through which goods can be transported via the first conveyor 220 through the goods receiving opening 190 into the dispensing device 130.

[0085] The third storage device 200' is arranged on the side of the first storage device 200 opposite the goods dispensing device 100. The third storage device 200' has essentially the same features as the third storage device 200' shown in Fig. 4 shown first bearing device 200.

[0086] The first storage device 200 in Fig. 7 further includes a receiving opening 240 through which goods can be received via the third conveyor 220' of the third storage device 200' through the transfer opening 230 of the third storage device 200'. The goods are then transported by the first conveyor 220 of the first storage device 200 through the first storage device 200, the transfer opening 230 of the first storage device 200, and the goods receiving opening 190 of the goods dispensing device 100 into the common dispensing device 130, from which the goods can be centrally removed by the customer.

[0087] Fig. Figure 8 shows another embodiment of the system, System 1000d. In contrast to the Fig.In the system 1000d shown in Figure 7, the first storage device 200 and the third storage device 220' have a common first conveyor 220 that transports the selected goods both from the third storage device 200' and from the first storage device 200 through the first storage device 200 to the transfer opening 230 of the first storage device 200 and into the output device 130 of the goods output device 100. This solution is particularly simple with regard to the required conveyor means.

[0088] It should be noted that the system is not limited to one or two storage devices, but may comprise a plurality of storage devices of the types described above, arranged side by side and having conveyors with which goods can be transported from the respective storage area to the conveyor of the adjacent storage device and / or the output device of the goods output device. The described storage devices can be easily assembled in a modular manner, together with, in particular, a single goods output device, to form an overall system.

Claims

[1] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) for selling goods, comprising a first storage device (200) and a goods dispensing device (100), the first storage device (200) comprising: - a first storage area (210) which is arranged for the storage of goods (270), - a first housing (260) having two opposite sides (261, 262), wherein the first housing (260) has a first transfer opening (230) on one of the two opposite sides (261, 262), - a first grant (220), - wherein the first storage device (200) is configured to remove goods from the first storage area (210) and to provide them on the first conveyor (220), - wherein the first conveying means (220) is configured to convey goods removed from the first storage area (210) within the first storage device (200) in a first transfer direction (274) towards the first transfer opening (230), and the goods dispensing device (100) comprising: - an operating element (120) comprising a selection device (121) by means of which the goods to be removed from the first storage area (110) of the first storage device (200) can be selected, - a dispensing device (130) in which goods can be provided for removal from a removal opening (131) on a front side (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100), - a goods receiving opening (190) which is arranged to receive goods conveyed from the first conveying means (220) to the first transfer opening (230), - wherein the first storage device (200) and the goods dispensing device (100) are arranged laterally adjacent to one another in such a way that the first forwarding direction (274) is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100). [2] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to claim 1, wherein the goods dispensing device (100) comprises a goods storage area (110) which is arranged for storing goods, and wherein the goods to be removed from the goods storage area (110) of the goods dispensing device (100) can be selected by means of the selection device (121). [3] System (1000c) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second storage device (300) comprising: - a second storage area (310) equipped for storing goods, - a second housing (360) having two opposite sides, wherein the second housing (360) has a second transfer opening (330) on one of the two opposite sides, - a second funding (320), - wherein the second storage device (300) is configured to remove goods from the second storage area (310) and to provide them on the second conveyor (320), - wherein the second conveyor (320) is configured to convey goods removed from the second storage area (310) within the second storage device (300) in a second forwarding direction (374) towards the second forwarding opening (330), wherein the goods dispensing device (100) has two goods receiving openings (190), wherein one of the goods receiving openings (190) is configured to receive goods conveyed by the first conveyor (220) to the first forwarding opening (230) and the other of the goods receiving openings (190) is configured to receive goods conveyed by the second conveyor (320) to the second forwarding opening (330), and - wherein the first storage device (200) and the second storage device (300) are arranged on opposite sides laterally adjacent to the goods dispensing device (100) in such a way that the first forwarding direction (274) and the second forwarding direction (374) are substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100). [4] System (1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a third storage device (200') comprising: - a third storage area (210') equipped for the storage of goods, - a third housing (260') having two opposite sides, wherein the third housing (260') has a third transfer opening (230') on one of the two opposite sides, - the first conveyor (220) or a third conveyor (220') as conveyor of the third storage device (200'), - wherein the third storage device (200') is configured to remove goods from the third storage area (210') and to provide them on the first conveyor (220) or the third conveyor (220'), - wherein the conveying means of the third storage device (200') is configured to convey goods removed from the third storage area (210') within the third storage device (200') in a third transfer direction (274, 374) towards the third transfer opening (230'), - wherein the first storage device (200) has a receiving opening (240) which is arranged to receive goods conveyed from the first conveyor means (220) or the third conveyor means (220') to the third transfer opening (230), and - wherein the third storage device (200') and the goods dispensing device (100) are arranged on opposite sides laterally adjacent to the first storage device (200) in such a way that the third forwarding direction (274, 374) is substantially perpendicular to the surface normal of the front side (100A) of the goods dispensing device (100). [5] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the goods dispensing device (100) and the first storage device (200) and / or the second storage device (300) and / or the third storage device (200') are arranged next to one another in such a way that the respectively associated first, second and / or third transfer opening (230, 230', 330) overlaps or coincides with the respectively associated goods receiving opening (190) of the goods dispensing device (100) and / or the respectively associated receiving opening (240) of the first storage device (200). [6] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the storage devices (200, 300, 200') is connected to the goods dispensing device (100) via a data interface of the goods dispensing device (100), and wherein the goods dispensing device (100) is configured to transmit information about selected and / or released goods to the storage devices (200, 300, 200') via the data interface. [7] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the selection device (121) has a display and / or input means, in particular a touch panel, and wherein the selection device (121) is configured to display on the display and / or input means the goods stored in the storage areas (100) of the goods dispensing device (100), and / or at least one of the first storage device (200), the second storage device (300) and the third storage device (200') and / or to make and receive an input for selecting selected goods. [8] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (120) further comprises a payment device (122) which is configured to receive payment for the selected goods, wherein the goods dispensing device (100) is in particular configured to issue the release only after payment has been made. [9] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the goods dispensing device (100) is configured to receive information about selected goods to be removed from the storage areas (110, 210, 210', 310) of the goods dispensing device (100) and / or at least one of the first, second and third storage devices (200, 200', 300), and to block the goods to be removed according to the received information for further selection. [10] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first, second and / or third conveying means (220, 220', 320) is a conveyor belt. [11] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conveying means (220) in the first forwarding direction (274) to the first forwarding opening (230) and / or the second conveying means (320) in the second forwarding direction (374) to the second forwarding opening (330) and / or the third conveying means (220') in the third forwarding direction (274, 374) to the third forwarding opening (230) rises, falls or runs flat. [12] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second and / or third conveying means (220, 220', 320) further comprises at least one driver, in particular at least one driver lug. [13] System (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage devices (200, 200', 300) are configured to remove selected goods from the corresponding storage area (210, 210', 310) by means of a handling system (272) after release and to provide them on the respective conveyor means (220, 220', 320). [14] Method for operating the system (1000a, 1000b, 1000c, 1000d) according to claim 13, wherein selected goods to be removed from the storage areas (210, 210', 310) of at least one of the first, second and / or third storage devices (200, 200', 300) are detected, and wherein the selected goods, after receiving the release, are removed from the corresponding storage areas (210, 210', 310) in the corresponding storage devices (200, 200', 300) by means of the handling system (272) of the corresponding storage device (200, 200', 300) and provided on the corresponding conveyor (220, 220', 320) and conveyed to the output device (130) of the goods output device (100).

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