System for paying out remaining balance in product vending machines

Abstract

A system (10) for dispensing the remaining balance in a vending machine, comprising: a power source; a microcontroller (17) configured to: to track the money inserted by the user into the machine when purchasing items; Calculate the remaining balance or request additional money based on the selected items in relation to the specified amount in cash or digital form; to store the validated currency in the appropriate area; and to refund the excess amount in coins / cash upon the user's request; a currency validation module (18) configured to verify and settle the amount deposited by the user for the simultaneous purchase of one or more items; a change dispensing module (15) configured to pay the user the remaining money in cash or coins from the total deposit based on the instructions of the microcontroller; a user interface module (12) allows the user to access the machine to select items, digital and physical payment options, monitor operating status, refund credit, and the like. a slider (16) stores / dispenses the rejected hand currency / coin on the instruction of the currency validation module, the slider being able to be opened / closed by actuation.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to credit dispensing systems and techniques related thereto. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system for dispensing coins / currency in commercial product vending machines to effectively prevent customer losses. BACKGROUND

[0002] Vending machines are used to sell goods such as snacks, beverages, medicines, packaged foods, and the like without staffing. However, the machines currently available do not dispense the remaining balance if the excess amount is paid by inserting coins. Therefore, most customers refuse to use the machines, as they lose their remaining balance if they pay too much compared to the original price. Existing machines do not offer a physical or digital refund for the remaining balance.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a system for dispensing coin / currency balances in commercial vending machines to prevent customer losses due to overpayments. The present invention effectively overcomes the aforementioned problems, limitations, and disadvantages. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a system for paying out the remaining balance when purchasing items from the vending machine.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to increase vending machine usage in order to shorten waiting times and increase continuous sales of products.

[0006] Another aim of the present invention is the possibility of paying out credit both digitally and physically as needed.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide payment options for both physical and digital insertion methods to reduce customer losses.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to implement the proposed system in conventional vending machines to effectively solve the credit refund problem.

[0009] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY

[0010] The various embodiments of the present invention disclose a system for dispensing coin / cash credit in vending machines for commercial products to prevent losses when purchasing items. The system includes a power source and a microcontroller. The microcontroller executes the predefined instructions sequentially to dispense the credit amount both digitally and physically, depending on the user's needs. The microcontroller is configured to detect the amount of money inserted into the machine by the user when making a purchase, calculate the remaining amount or request additional money based on the selected items in relation to the specified amount in cash or digital form, store the validated currency in the corresponding area, and dispense the excess amount in coins / cash upon user request.

[0011] The currency validation module verifies and counts the amount deposited by the user for the simultaneous purchase of one or more items. The change dispensing module dispenses the remaining amount of the total deposit to the user in cash or coins upon instruction from the microcontroller. The user interface module allows the user to access the machine to select items, access digital and physical payment options, monitor status, withdraw funds, and more.

[0012] The print box stores and dispenses the returned cash / coins upon instruction from the currency validation module. It can be opened and closed by operating the print lever. The change dispensing system can dispense the remaining amount in coins or cash, depending on the user's needs and can be selected via the user interface. Dispensing products can include beverages, food, medicine, and the like.

[0013] In one embodiment, the microcontroller executes the instructions in a predefined sequence to pay the user the credit amount in the form of coins, cash, or digitally. Users can send the money both by inserting the cash and digitally.

[0014] In one embodiment, users can receive the remaining balance both through dispensing and digitally. System operation can be remotely monitored by authenticated individuals from one or more locations.

[0015] These and other aspects of the embodiments described herein will become more fully understood in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. The following descriptions, while showing preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are illustrative and not limiting. Numerous changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments described herein are intended to include all such modifications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0016] Further objects, features, and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings. In these drawings: Fig. the front view of the system for issuing credit in digital and physical form according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] The specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings but not in others. This is for clarity only, since each feature according to the present invention can be combined with all or some of the other features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The various embodiments, as well as further developments and features, are explained in the following detailed description with reference to non-limiting details. The depiction of processing techniques for known components is omitted in order not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments described herein. The examples used herein are intended to facilitate understanding of the possible applications of the embodiments described herein and to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0019] The various embodiments of the present invention disclose a system (10) for dispensing coins / banknotes in vending machines to prevent losses when purchasing items. The system includes a power source and a microcontroller. The microcontroller (17) sequentially executes the predefined instructions to dispense the credit amount both digitally and physically, depending on the user's needs.

[0020] The microcontroller is configured to: - tracks the money inserted into the machine by the user when making a purchase; - calculates the remaining balance or requests additional money based on the selected items in relation to the specified amount in cash or digital form; - stores the validated currency in the relevant area; and - refunds the excess amount in coins / banknotes upon request from the user.

[0021] The system (10) also includes a currency validation module, a change dispensing module, and a user interface module. The currency validation module (18) verifies and counts the amount deposited by the user for the simultaneous purchase of one or more items. The validation module checks the quality of the currency or coin and its accounts based on the microcontroller's predefined instructions. The change dispensing module (15) dispenses the remaining amount of the total deposit to the user in cash or coins according to the microcontroller's instructions. The user can receive the remaining amount in coins, cash, or digital form.

[0022] Fig.shows the front view of the digital and physical balance dispensing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The user interface module (12) allows the user to access the machine to select items, digital and physical payment options, monitor operating status, select credit return options, and the like. The settings of the user interface module can be changed by authenticated users. The push button (16) stores / dispenses the returned cash / coin according to the instructions of the currency validation module. The drawer can be opened / closed by operating the push lever.

[0023] The credit dispensing system can dispense the remaining balance in coins or banknotes, depending on the user's needs and can be selected via the user interface. Dispensing can include beverages, food, medication, and the like. In one embodiment, the microcontroller executes the instructions in a predefined sequence to pay the user the remaining balance in coins, banknotes, or digital form. Users can send the money both by inserting and digitally.

[0024] In one embodiment, users can receive the remaining balance both by cashout and digitally. System operation can be remotely monitored by authenticated individuals from one or more locations.

[0025] The vending machine may comprise a spool assembly (11) and a motor. The spool assembly serves to store the packaged items for sale. The motor rotation contributes to the rotation of the spool to dispense the selected item incrementally. The user can select the items via the user interface.

[0026] In one embodiment, the user interface supports the execution of digital payments such as UPI, credit or debit cards, and the like. It also assists the user in item selection. The coin slot is used to insert coins. The inserted coin is first verified by the currency validation module before processing. If the coin is verified, the process begins. Otherwise, the coin is sent to the input box. Users can also insert money through the coin slot. Non-rejected banknotes are also sent to the input box.

[0027] The coin acceptor (13) accepts coins based on instructions from the microcontroller and authenticates them. The bill acceptor accepts and authenticates bills before processing. Contactless payment systems such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, and RFID cards eliminate the need for physical cash when shopping. The coin dispenser dispenses change for online payments or on physical paper. The touchscreen display (12) offers the user interactive selection options. The spiral system with rotating spirals advances the products for dispensing. The lifting mechanism gently drops delicate items (e.g., glass bottles). The dispensing system drops the items into a catch tray after selection. The product shelves / racks in the vending machine store various items.

[0028] One or more sensors provide information about product availability and correct dispensing. The temperature control system ensures refrigeration of chilled items.

[0029] The locking system protects against intruders. The tamper sensor warns of tampering with the machine. The power supply converts the current into electricity for various components. The storage box stores the amount of items paid by the customer. The motors and actuators drive mechanical components such as dispensers and shelves. The LED display provides user interface and visibility.

[0030] The system (10) dispenses the remaining amount if the customer pays more than the specified amount. This is done through programming or coding that can be entered into the machine by the system. The machine first asks for coins, cash, or digital payment. When money is inserted, the machine checks the currency using sensors. For digital payments, the machine requests an authorization request from a payment gateway. The system checks the deposited amount. If the amount is low, the user is prompted to deposit more money. If the amount is high, the machine dispenses change. The spiral assists product dispensing. The machine allows the selection of multiple products before final payment. The drop vending system releases the product into the dispensing tray. The lifting mechanism safely lowers delicate goods to prevent damage. The product falls into a dispensing tray from which the user can remove it.If the machine has error detection, it checks whether the item was dispensed correctly. If not, it either attempts to dispense again or refunds the amount. If the user has paid more, the machine dispenses change (coins or bills). If a credit balance is stored, the user's credit balance is updated for future use.

[0031] In case of errors (e.g., product jam, low stock, payment error), the machine displays an error message or sends a remote notification. After the transaction is completed, the machine goes into standby mode and waits for the next customer. If the product is not dispensed, the machine will try again or refund the amount. If the payment is completed but the product is not dispensed, we can request the required amount. The refund will be paid out after a certain period of time.

[0032] In one embodiment, the user can select items, payment methods, etc. via the user interface. When manually inserting the coin, the system checks for quality. If the currency is duplicated, it is sent to the push box. If it is correct, the products are dispensed. The remaining balance is also calculated and paid out. During the calculation, the system suggests a payment method (e.g., physical or digital) in the user interface. If the user selects the appropriate option, the remaining balance is paid out if they pay the amount above the original price.

[0033] The present invention (10) reduces the losses of customers when purchasing items from vending machines.

[0034] The examples of the present invention described above are for illustrative purposes only. Although the present invention has been described using a specific example, numerous modifications are possible without substantially departing from the teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Further substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible without departing from the spirit of the present solution. All features disclosed in this description (including the appended claims, the abstract, and the drawings) and / or all steps of a method or process disclosed therein may be combined in any way, except for combinations in which at least some of these features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0035] Although the embodiments described herein are described with reference to various specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications to the embodiments described herein will be readily apparent. List of reference symbols: 10 System for paying out the remaining balance 11 Coil-shaped arrangement 12 User interface module 13 Coin slot 14 Coin slot 15 credit recipients 16 sliders 17 microcontrollers 18 Money Validation Module

Claims

[1] A system (10) for dispensing the remaining balance in a vending machine, comprising: a power source; a microcontroller (17) configured to: to track the money inserted by the user into the machine when purchasing items; Calculate the remaining balance or request additional money based on the selected items in relation to the specified amount in cash or digital form; to store the validated currency in the appropriate area; and to refund the excess amount in coins / cash upon the user's request; a currency validation module (18) configured to verify and settle the amount deposited by the user for the simultaneous purchase of one or more items; a change dispensing module (15) configured to pay the user the remaining money in cash or coins from the total deposit based on the instructions of the microcontroller; a user interface module (12) allows the user to access the machine to select items, digital and physical payment options, monitor operating status, refund credit, and the like. a slider (16) stores / dispenses the rejected hand currency / coin on the instruction of the currency validation module, the slider being able to be opened / closed by actuation. [2] A system for dispensing remaining balance in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the system (10) can dispense the remaining amount in the form of coins or banknotes according to the user's needs and the selection is made via the user interface. [3] A system for dispensing residual credit in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the dispensed products may be beverages, food, medicines and the like. [4] A system for paying out the remaining balance in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (17) executes the instructions in a predefined sequence to pay out the remaining amount to the user in the form of coins, cash or digitally. [5] A system for paying out the remaining balance in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein users can send the money both by inserting and digitally. [6] A system for paying out the remaining balance in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the users can receive the remaining balance both by dispensing and digitally. [7] A system for dispensing the remaining balance in a vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation of the system (10) can be remotely monitored by authenticated persons from one or more locations.

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